Michael Bugeja warns collectors that the rare 1982-D Small Date penny is unlikely to be found in common pocket change.
Michael Bugeja, a professor emeritus at Iowa State University, warns amateur coin collectors that the rare 1982-D Small Date penny is unlikely to be found in everyday pocket change. While social media influencers frequently promote the coin as a potential treasure, experts suggest that only two specimens have been found in the last 40 years. The coin is a transitional error where a few copper coins were minted with the smaller dates used for the zinc transition. To be considered authentic, the coin must have a 'D' mintmark and weigh exactly 3.1 grams. Many common 1982 pennies are often mistaken for the rare variety because they are copper-plated zinc rather than bronze. Experts recommend that buyers use trusted dealers who follow a strict Code of Ethics to avoid being scammed by non-specialty sites like eBay. Collectors seeking the 'unicorn' coin are advised to search rolls or mint bags of 1982-D pennies for the best odds of finding a third specimen.