Infrared and Raman spectra (4000–100 cm) of solid samples of seven different 2-phenyl-, N-benzoyl-, and 2-ethyl-2 methyl derivatives of L-cysteine and D-penicillamine have been observed and assigned. Proton and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectra for the compounds have also been measured. Amino acid/zwitterion equilibria are discussed with reference to pK values and the vibrational spectra. Key words: amino acid/zwitterion equilibria, thiazolidine carboxylic acids.