Let’s explore why this coin exists, how to identify it, and why collectors are willing to pay a small fortune for what isn’t there.
Why the 1922 “No D” Penny Exists
- The Denver Mint was the only U.S. Mint producing cents in 1922. Every coin should have had a “D” mintmark below the date.
- Die wear & over-polishing erased the “D” from some working dies. Coins struck from these defective dies came out with no mintmark at all.
- This created one of the most famous missing mintmark varieties in all of U.S. numismatics.
Key Identification Features
Obverse (Front):
- Bust of Abraham Lincoln facing right.
- Inscriptions: “IN GOD WE TRUST” (top), “LIBERTY” (left).
- Date: “1922” with no “D” mintmark below it.
- Strike Quality: Often weak on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” due to worn dies.
Reverse (Back):
- Standard Wheat Ears reverse: “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”.
- The error is strictly on the obverse.
Value Breakdown – The $19,000 Truth
| Condition | Typical Value | Premium with PCGS/NGC Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $500–$1,500 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| MS-63 | $3,000–$6,000 | $10,000+ |
| MS-65 (Gem) | $8,000–$12,000 | $19,000+ |
Many uncertified coins are fakes (altered by removing a “D”). Certification is absolutely essential.
5-Step Authentication Protocol
- Absence of “D” – Confirm no mintmark below “1922.”
- Magnified Inspection – Look for tool marks or depressions. A genuine “No D” has a smooth surface.
- Die Diagnostics – Genuine examples show weak strike features consistent with the worn dies.
- Standard Weight – 3.11 grams, copper composition.
- Professional Grading – Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication and valuation.
Why Collectors Pay Top Dollar
Extreme Rarity – Only a small fraction of 1922 pennies were struck without the “D.”
Unique Mint Story – Caused by die over-polishing, not omission at design.
Historical Significance – Denver was the only mint striking cents that year.
Collector Demand – A “must-have” for serious Lincoln cent set builders.
Where & How to Sell
- Top Auction Houses – Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers.
- Specialized Dealers – Numismatists focusing on U.S. errors.
- Never Clean or Polish – Original surfaces matter more than shine.
What to Do If You Find One
- Take clear macro photos of both sides.
- Capture a close-up of the date area under good lighting.
- Weigh the coin (should be ~3.11g).
- Submit directly to PCGS or NGC.
Bonus: At PennyVerse.info, we offer free initial evaluations. Send hi-res photos or video to cash@pennyverse.info for a rarity check.
