My Exploration of the 1982-D Small Date Cent Weighing 3.09 Grams

My Journey into the 1982 Lincoln Cent Mysteries

Coin varieties have always hooked me, and lately I’ve been completely wrapped up in the 1982 Lincoln cent. Those 1982-D small dates weighing around 3.09 grams? They’ve kept me up nights sorting through rolls, and what I’ve learned might save you some headaches.

The Ghost Coin

Here’s what stunned me: that 1982-D small date on pure copper is practically a ghost. Only two confirmed examples exist worldwide. After months searching, I realized chasing this unicorn will only drive you nuts. It’s become one of those numismatic campfire stories – fascinating to discuss but not worth wrecking your collection over.

Where Collectors Stumble

I’ve seen too many folks trip over this coin. Just because you’ve got a 1982 small date near 3.1 grams doesn’t mean it’s special. Remember, the Mint cranked out billions that year – most are common zinc cores or plated zinc. Date mix-ups happen constantly too.

• Weight trips people up: 3.09g fits within normal copper tolerance (±0.3g from 3.11g), but if your scale shows 3.9g? That’s probably operator error.
• Rushed eyes lead to heartbreak: So many get excited over damaged coins or common dates they misread.

Spotting the Small Date

Here’s how I learned to ID them right: Examine that date like it owes you money. Look for the “snowman” shape in the 8 – small top loop sitting on a bigger bottom loop. And please, buy a decent digital scale! Copper should hit about 3.11g, so 3.09g passes if your scale’s calibrated. Always verify twice though.

Collecting Smarter

Let me save you some frustration: Aim for the complete 1982 set instead – large and small dates from both Philly and Denver. It’s satisfying, teaches heaps, and actually achievable. And always pull copper cents when you find them – zinc coins turn ugly over time while copper stays handsome. These sets hold value well with other collectors. Honestly? The thrill’s in the chase and discovery, not hunting ghosts.