The 1922 Plain Penny Debate: Essential for Lincoln Penny Collectors

The 1922 Lincoln Wheat Penny holds a special place in numismatic history, particularly due to its unique “plain” or “no D” variety.

This rare coin has sparked considerable debate among collectors and enthusiasts, making it essential knowledge for anyone interested in Lincoln Penny collecting.

Understanding the 1922 Lincoln Wheat Penny

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The Lincoln Wheat Penny, introduced in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s centennial birth anniversary, features a portrait of Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

In 1922, all pennies were minted at the Denver Mint and were expected to bear the “D” mintmark.

The Emergence of the “Plain” 1922 Penny

In 1922, the Denver Mint faced challenges due to overused dies, leading to the creation of the “plain” or “no D” variety.

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This occurred when the mintmark area on the die became filled with grease and debris, resulting in coins struck without a visible “D” mintmark.

Varieties of the 1922 “No D” Penny

The 1922 “No D” Lincoln Penny is categorized into several varieties based on die pairs and the strength of the mintmark:

1. 1922 No D Strong Reverse

This variety features a strong reverse design with a completely absent mintmark, making it highly sought after by collectors.

2. 1922 Weak D

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Coins in this category exhibit a faint or partially visible “D” mintmark, resulting from die wear or grease-filled dies.

3. 1922 No D Weak Reverse

This variety is characterized by a weak reverse design, often due to a worn reverse die, combined with the absence of the mintmark.

4. 1922 D

The standard 1922 Lincoln Penny with a visible “D” mintmark, indicating it was minted in Denver.

5. 1922 No D

A rare variety where the “D” mintmark is completely absent, often due to die issues during minting.

Grading and Valuation

The value of a 1922 “No D” Lincoln Penny varies significantly based on its condition and specific variety. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades indicating better preservation.

For example, a 1922 No D Strong Reverse in MS64 grade can command prices exceeding $37,000.

Collecting Considerations

Due to the scarcity and value of the 1922 “No D” varieties, collectors should exercise caution. The market has seen instances of counterfeiting, with some fakes being quite convincing.

Therefore, obtaining coins from reputable dealers and considering professional authentication is highly recommended.

The 1922 “No D” Lincoln Wheat Penny remains a fascinating and valuable piece for collectors. Understanding its varieties, grading, and the historical context of its minting errors is crucial for anyone serious about Lincoln Penny collecting.

FAQs

What caused the “No D” mintmark on the 1922 Lincoln Penny?

The absence of the “D” mintmark was due to grease and debris filling the mintmark area on the die, resulting in coins struck without a visible mintmark.

How can I identify a 1922 “No D” Lincoln Penny?

Look for a 1922 penny with no mintmark under the date. Additionally, the second “2” in the date is typically clearer than the first, and the word “TRUST” is sharper than other inscriptions.

Are all 1922 Lincoln Pennies valuable?

While all 1922 Lincoln Pennies have some value, the “No D” varieties are particularly rare and command higher prices, especially in higher grades.