The elastic properties of copper have been compiled and reviewed. Polycrystalline elastic constants included are: Young's modulus, the shear modulus, the bulk modulus, and Poisson's ratio. Single‐crystal constants of second‐, third‐, and fourth‐order are included. Over 200 references to the experimental literature are given. A few theoretical numbers are included. When sufficient data exist, best values are recommended together with their standard errors. Effects on the elastic constants of temperature, pressure, and mechanical (plastic) deformation are included. The Cauchy (central‐force) relationships and the single‐crystal—polycrystal relationship are also discussed.