1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

1984 BU Lincoln Cent NO FG ERROR Reverse | eBay — 1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent

Estimated Value

$10 – $11

Period: 1982
Origin: United States
Materials: Copper-plated zinc
Category: Lincoln cent

The 1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent marks a pivotal transition in U.S. coinage history as the Mint shifted from 95% copper to a more cost-effective copper-plated zinc core. This specific Denver-minted variety is highly sought after by collectors in high-grade 'Red' condition, as the new zinc composition was prone to unsightly plating bubbles and early corrosion.

What Is 1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent is $10 - $11 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

The presence of a 'Red' (RD) designation from grading services significantly increases the $10.00-$11.00 value range.
Surface quality is critical, as coins free of plating blisters and carbon spots command the highest premiums.
The specific die variety, specifically whether the coin features the 'Small Date' or 'Large Date' configuration.
Overall strike sharpness, particularly on Lincoln's hair and the pillars of the Memorial building.

How to Identify 1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

Verify the 'D' mint mark located below the date, signifying production at the Denver Mint.
Check the weight of the coin; a zinc specimen will weigh approximately 2.5 grams compared to the 3.11 grams of older copper versions.
Examine the date size to distinguish between the 'Large Date' and 'Small Date' die varieties used during this transitional year.
Look for a bright, original mint luster without the common bubbling or 'zinc rot' often found on early plated cents.

History of 1982-D Lincoln Memorial Cent

1982 was a transitional year for the United States Mint, during which the composition of the penny changed from 95% copper to a copper-plated zinc core to save on production costs. Additionally, the mint modified the dies mid-year, creating both 'Large Date' and 'Small Date' varieties. Collectors highly prize high-grade 'Red' specimens from this era due to the difficulty of finding zinc coins without bubbling or corrosion.