The 1982-D Numismatic Treasure
The 1982-D penny has gotten complicated with all the composition varieties and value debates flying around. As someone who has sorted thousands of these transitional coins, I learned everything there is to know about what makes certain 1982-D pennies collectible. Today, I will share it all with you.
Why 1982 Matters
Probably should have led with this section, honestly—1982 was the transition year from 95% copper to copper-plated zinc. Both compositions were produced simultaneously at both Philadelphia and Denver.
Denver Varieties
That’s what makes 1982-D pennies endearing to us variety collectors:
- Copper large date: 3.11 grams
- Zinc large date: 2.5 grams
The Rare One
A few 1982-D small date copper pennies have been authenticated. If genuine, worth thousands—this combination wasn’t supposed to exist.
How to Check
Use a digital scale. 3+ grams = copper. Under 2.7 grams = zinc. Check date size against references. Every 1982-D deserves examination.
