1982-D Lincoln Cent Value Guide

The 1982-D Lincoln Cent is a significant piece of numismatic history, representing the United States Mint's transition from 95% copper to a zinc-based composition. This year is highly collectible due to the existence of eight distinct varieties involving date size, mint marks, and metal content.

What Is 1982-D Lincoln Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1982-D Lincoln Cent is $0 - $0 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Composition: Copper-alloy versions are generally more sought after by collectors than the zinc-core counterparts.
• Variety: Small Date vs. Large Date strikes significantly impact the rarity and market demand.
• Condition: While circulated examples fetch $0.05-$0.25, uncirculated specimens with original red luster command higher premiums.
• Mint Errors: Look for doubling or plating issues common during the 1982 transition period which can increase value.

How to Identify 1982-D Lincoln Cent?

• Check for the 'D' mint mark below the date, indicating production at the Denver Mint.
• Perform a weight test: copper versions weigh 3.11 grams, while the newer zinc-core versions weigh only 2.5 grams.
• Examine the date size to determine if it is a 'Large Date' or 'Small Date' variety, a key distinction for 1982 issues.
• Look for the 'VDB' initials on the base of Lincoln's shoulder to confirm the Victor David Brenner design.

History of 1982-D Lincoln Cent

The Lincoln Cent was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The year 1982 is a pivotal date in modern US coinage because it marks the transition from the bronze alloy (95% copper) used for decades to a cheaper composition (97.5% zinc core with a thin copper plating) due to rising metal costs. Because of this mid-year change, 1982 cents exist in eight different combinations of date size, mint mark, and composition, making it a key year for collectors, although the coin pictured appears to be one of the more common varieties.