1982 P Lincoln Memorial Cent Small Cents Copper - Large Date Copper Alloy Penny (2024)

I'm an enthusiast with a deep understanding of numismatics, particularly focusing on coin composition, varieties, and market values. I've extensively studied the intricacies of coin design, minting processes, and the factors that contribute to a coin's rarity and value.

Now, let's delve into the information related to the USA Coin Book Small Cents, specifically the 1982-P Lincoln Memorial Cent with a Large Date and copper composition:

1. Coin Details:

   • Coin Type: Lincoln Memorial Cent
   • Year: 1982
   • Mint Mark: P (Philadelphia, no mint mark)
   • Designer - Engraver: Frank Gasparro

2. Composition:

   • Metal Composition: 95% Copper - 5% Tin and Zinc
   • Diameter: 19 mm
   • Mass / Weight: 3.11 grams

3. Varieties:

   • The 1982 Lincoln Memorial Cent came in two major varieties: Large Date and Small Date.
   • The Large Date variety is depicted in the provided image, showing the "82" level with the preceding "1" and a noticeable space within the 2. The numbers in the Small Date variety are slimmer compared to the fatter numbers of the Large Date.

4. Composition Change:

   • The 1982 Lincoln Memorial Cent marked a transition from a more expensive 95% copper composition to a cheaper 97.5% zinc composite penny, which is the composition used for pennies produced presently.

5. Pre-1982 Copper Pennies:

   • Pre-1982 copper pennies are sought after by bullion investors because of their 95% copper composition. The melt value of these coins is worth more than twice their face value.

6. Coin Value:

   • The USA Coin Book Estimated Value of the 1982 Lincoln Memorial Penny (Copper - Large Date Variety) is noted as $1.16 or more in Uncirculated (MS+) Mint Condition.
   • The melt value is mentioned as $0.0256.

7. Other Varieties and Years:

   • The article provides information on various other varieties of the 1982 penny, including those with different compositions (zinc) and dates (small and large).

8. Market Listings:

   • The article includes listings of 1982-P Lincoln Memorial Cents for sale, each with its own price and condition.

In summary, the 1982-P Lincoln Memorial Cent with a Large Date and copper composition is a notable coin with specific design features, variations, and value considerations that make it of interest to collectors and investors alike. If you're looking to explore this further, you can refer to the provided listings for available coins in the market.