Why Some 1983 Pennies Are Worth a Small Fortune
While most 1983 Lincoln cents are worth face value, a rare copper version of this penny can be worth over $20,000 to collectors. Here’s how to identify this valuable error among common zinc pennies.
Key Identification Features
1. Weight Test (Most Important)
- Valuable Copper Version: 3.11 grams (pre-1982 standard)
- Common Zinc Version: 2.5 grams (post-1982 standard)
Pro Tip: Use a precision digital scale (accurate to 0.01g)
2. Edge Examination
- Copper Error: Shows solid copper color (no zinc core visible)
- Normal 1983: Visible zinc layer (two-tone appearance)
3. Sound Test
- Copper: Deep “ringing” sound when dropped
- Zinc: Dull “clink” sound
4. Date & Mintmark Varieties
All 1983 copper errors are from:
- Philadelphia (no mintmark)
- Denver (“D” mintmark)
*(No known 1983-S copper proofs exist)*
5. Doubled Die Varieties
Some copper errors also show:
- DDR (Doubled Die Reverse): 5,000−5,000−15,000 premium
- DDO (Doubled Die Obverse): 10,000−10,000−20,000+ premium
Grading & Value Spectrum
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS65 RD | 15,000−15,000−20,000 |
| AU55 RB | 5,000−5,000−8,000 |
| XF40 BN | 2,000−2,000−3,000 |
Record Sale: $23,500 (PCGS MS66 RD, 2021)
How This Error Occurred
The 1983 Transition Year
- Official Change: U.S. Mint switched from 95% copper to zinc cores in 1982
- Accident: Some copper planchets remained in presses into early 1983
- Estimated Survivors: 50-100 coins across all mints
Where to Search
Best Hunting Methods:
- Original Bank Rolls (especially early 1983 batches)
- Coin Dealer Junk Bins (often overlooked)
- Estate Collections (people saved “last copper pennies”)
Recent Discovery:
A collector found a 1983-D copper cent in a 25bankbox−latersoldfor∗∗25bankbox−latersoldfor∗∗18,800**
Authentication Process
Step-by-Step Verification:
- Weigh Precisely (must be 3.11g ±0.05g)
- Check Edge (solid copper, no zinc)
- Magnify Date Area (look for doubling)
- Professional Grading (PCGS/NGC certification essential)
Red Flags:
❌ Wrong weight (must be 3.11g)
❌ Plated zinc coins (will show copper wear)
❌ Tool marks near date
Where to Sell for Top Dollar
Best Platforms:
- Heritage Auctions (for certified MS65+ examples)
- PCGS CoinFacts Forum (for raw coins needing attribution)
- Major Coin Shows (direct to specialist dealers)
Selling Tip:
Certified coins sell for 300-500% more than raw examples
Free Professional Evaluation
Think you have a 1983 copper penny? Email clear photos to:
📧 copper@pennyverse.info
Subject: “1983 COPPER CHECK”
We’ll provide:
✔ Free weight verification guide
✔ Current market valuation
✔ Best authentication options
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