Coin collecting is full of surprises, and sometimes the rarest treasures are the ones that seem ordinary. One such coin is the 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny—a rare minting error that has collectors spending thousands just to own one. This unique coin stands out not because of what’s on it, but because of what’s missing: the “D” mintmark. If you happen to own one, you could be sitting on a small fortune without even knowing it.
1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny
The 1922 Lincoln penny was only produced at the Denver Mint, and all should have a “D” mintmark beneath the date. However, due to a worn die, a small number of pennies were struck without the “D”, creating a rare and valuable error coin known as the 1922 No D penny.
Collectors prize this coin because it shouldn’t exist. Since there was no production of Lincoln cents in Philadelphia or San Francisco in 1922, any penny without a mintmark is automatically suspicious—and in this case, highly collectible. Depending on its condition, a 1922 No D penny can sell for anywhere from $500 to over $15,000, and rare high-grade specimens have gone for more than $30,000 at auction.
One Tiny Detail, One Big Payday
The 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny proves that even a small detail—or lack of one—can mean the difference between pocket change and a payday. If you have old wheat pennies tucked away, take a close look. That tiny missing mintmark could mean thousands of dollars. In the world of rare coins, it’s not always what’s there—it’s what’s missing that counts.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if I have a 1922 No D penny?
Check the date on the penny. If it says “1922” and there’s no mintmark beneath it, you might have a No D penny. Be sure to have it authenticated by a professional grading service.
2. Why was the D mintmark missing from some 1922 pennies?
The Denver Mint used a worn die that failed to leave the mintmark on some coins. This unintentional error led to a small number of “No D” pennies being released.
3. How much is a 1922 No D penny worth?
Values range from $500 in worn condition to $30,000 or more for coins in pristine condition. The coin’s grade plays a big role in its market value.
4. Are all 1922 pennies without a D valuable?
No. Only certain die varieties without a D are considered valuable. A professional evaluation is necessary to determine if it’s the rare variety.
5. Can I find a 1922 No D penny in circulation?
It’s extremely rare, but not impossible. Most are found in old collections, estate sales, or family coin jars.