1982-D 1C Zinc Small Date, Lincoln Cent
The 1982-D Lincoln Cent marks a transitional period in U.S. coinage history, where the U.S. Mint switched from a 95% copper alloy to a primarily zinc composition with a thin copper coating. Specifically, the 1982-D 1C Zinc Small Date, Brown (BN) variety is a result of this major adjustment. The "D" mintmark signifies it was minted at the Denver Mint during a year that saw the production of both copper and zinc cents with large and small date variations.
Rarity and Mintage
Mintage figures for the 1982-D Lincoln Cent, particularly in the Small Date, Zinc composition, amount to approximately 6,012,979, considered fairly common among Lincoln cents. Despite the high mintage, this particular coin has gained attention due to its role in the transitional year, making it a particular interest to collectors focusing on changes in minting materials and techniques.
Value and Sales
Records In terms of value, the coin generally has moderate collectability attributed to its common mintage and composition. Values can range significantly based on condition, with circulated examples typically only holding face value due to their abundance. However, uncirculated and high-grade specimens are more sought after, fetching higher prices at auction. Recent auctions and sales have seen this coin valued within lower to middle ranges, especially when certified by grading institutions like PCGS or NGC, but large earnings are generally not observed due to its availability.
Numismatists’ Perspective
From a numismatist point of view, the 1982-D 1C Zinc Small Date, BN stands out more for its historical context than its intrinsic rarity. This was a year of significant change in minting materials driven by economic factors, as the rising cost of copper pushed the U.S. Mint to adopt a more cost-effective approach. This coin represents one of the first widespread uses of the copper-plated zinc planchets which would become the new standard for U.S. pennies—offering insight into economic conditions and technological advancements within the minting community during the early 1980s.
PCGS Information
According to PCGS CoinFacts, the PCGS # 146034 refers to their specific categorization and grading reference for the coin. Although the exact PCGS number may vary slightly depending on details such as color designation and mint state, it acts as a vital tool for collectors to identify and evaluate specific coins accurately within their grading database.
Conclusion
The 1982-D 1C Zinc Small Date, BN, while not scarce, holds notable importance within U.S. coinage history due to the major transitions occurring during its mintage. Collectors with an interest in the evolution of U.S. minting materials and techniques may find this coin an essential piece to illustrate the economic and technological shifts of the early 1980s. Its value, reflective of its historical curiosity more than rarity, maintains it as an accessible yet intriguing option for collectors to pursue.
