The Legendary 1922 No D Wheat
In coin collecting, sometimes what’s missing is far more valuable than what’s present.
That’s exactly why the famous 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most desired error coins in U.S. history.
While a normal 1922-D wheat penny might be worth $30–$40, the rare version without the “D” mint mark can sell for $700 in worn condition and climb into the thousands of dollars in higher grades.
Best of all?
This is one of the easiest major errors to spot — if you know where to look.
Let’s walk through it step by step 👇
🏛️ Why the 1922 No D Penny Exists
In 1922, the Denver Mint was the only U.S. Mint striking Lincoln cents.
That means:
👉 Every 1922 penny should have a small D mint mark.
However, a heavily worn and over-polished obverse die lost the “D” completely. Coins struck from this damaged die came out with:
✔️ The date 1922
✔️ No mint mark at all
This created the legendary 1922 No D Penny.
🔍 Step 1: Find a 1922 Wheat Penny
Search through:
- Old jars and containers
- Coin albums
- Wheat penny rolls
- Family collections
If you don’t see 1922, move on. If you do — continue.
👀 Step 2: Check Below the Date
Look at the front (obverse) of the coin.
Focus on the area just below the date 1922.
What You Might See:
- D present → Regular 1922-D penny
- Completely blank → Potential 1922 No D penny
👉 A true No D will show a smooth, empty space — not scratches or damage.
⚠️ Weak D vs. True No D
Some coins show a faint or partial D (called a Weak D).
These are valuable too, but less valuable than a true No D.
A true No D:
✔️ No trace of the D
✔️ Flat, clean field under date
💰 1922 No D Penny Value Guide
Approximate market ranges:
- Good – Fair: $700 – $900
- Fine – Very Fine: $1,500 – $3,000+
- Extremely Fine – About Uncirculated: $4,000 – $10,000+
- Mint State (Uncirculated): $15,000 and up
Condition plays a massive role in value.
🛑 Beware of Fakes
Because this coin is so valuable, many altered coins exist where someone removed the D from a normal 1922-D penny.
That’s why authentication is critical.
🛡️ Step 3: Get It Professionally Graded
If you believe you found a No D penny:
1️⃣ Do NOT clean it
2️⃣ Handle only by the edges
3️⃣ Place it in a protective holder
4️⃣ Submit to PCGS or NGC
Professional grading will:
✔️ Confirm authenticity
✔️ Assign an official grade
✔️ Seal it in a tamper-proof holder
✔️ Unlock its true market value
✅ Quick Checklist
✔️ Date reads 1922
✔️ Wheat reverse design
✔️ No mint mark under date
✔️ Coin not cleaned
If yes — you may be holding a four- or five-figure coin.
🧠 Final Thoughts
The 1922 No D Wheat Penny is legendary for a reason.
It’s simple to spot.
It’s historically important.
And it can be worth more than many people’s cars.
Before you overlook another old penny… check the date.
Your next big discovery could already be in your drawer. 🪙💰
Leave a Reply