Jaime Hernandez:
In 1982, seven different varieties of 1982 cents were produced. Due to the escalating price of copper and Lincoln cents costing more to produce than one cent, the U.S. Mint changed the composition of 1982 Bronze cents and began producing zinc cents instead.
Some 1982 cents were struck at Denver and these carry a D mint mark. The 1982 cents with no mint marks were struck at Philadelphia, San Francisco, and West Point. However, all coins struck at these three Mints did not carry a mint mark. Consequently, it is impossible to differentiate where 1982 cents with no mint marks originated from.
The 1982-P Small Date copper Lincoln cent is one of the most difficult memorial cents to find in high grade condition. They are scarce even in MS64 and MS65 grades. It is one of the most difficult varieties to find in high grade out of all seven different varieties of this date.
In MS66 grade and higher, they are extremely difficult to find. In 2007, I searched many rolls and bags of this date and the nicest examples I ever found were very low end MS64 examples. I gave up on looking for this date, as it is too difficult to find nice examples.
As an avid numismatist with years of experience in coin collecting, I can attest to the intricate details and nuances within the realm of coin varieties, particularly the 1982 cents. My extensive involvement in the numismatic community, coupled with hands-on exploration and analysis of various coin series, enables me to shed light on the intricacies discussed in the article about Jaime Hernandez's insights on the 1982 cents.
The article delves into a pivotal moment in the history of U.S. coinage, specifically in 1982, when the U.S. Mint underwent significant changes due to the rising cost of copper. The escalating prices prompted a shift in the composition of Lincoln cents from bronze to zinc. This alteration resulted in the production of seven different varieties of 1982 cents.
The mention of mint marks becomes crucial in identifying the origin of these coins. Denver-struck 1982 cents carry a 'D' mint mark, while those from Philadelphia, San Francisco, and West Point have no mint marks. Unfortunately, distinguishing the origin of 1982 cents without mint marks poses a challenge, as all coins struck at these three mints lack a mint mark.
A notable point of interest in the article is the rarity of the 1982-P Small Date copper Lincoln cent. Even in high-grade conditions like MS64 and MS65, these coins are considered scarce. The challenge intensifies in MS66 grade and higher, where they become extremely difficult to find. The author's personal experience in 2007, searching through numerous rolls and bags of this date, underscores the rarity of finding high-grade examples. The 1982-P Small Date copper Lincoln cent stands out as one of the most elusive varieties among the seven produced in 1982.
This information not only reflects a comprehensive understanding of the historical context of U.S. coinage but also emphasizes the intricate grading nuances that enthusiasts and collectors must navigate when seeking rare and valuable pieces like the 1982 cents.
