1922-D Lincoln Wheat Penny: The "No D" Mystery of Denver

A Unique Coin with a Legendary Minting Error

The 1922-D Lincoln Wheat Penny holds a unique place in American numismatics, standing out not only as the only Lincoln Cent struck exclusively at the Denver Mint, but also as the origin of one of the most famous mint errors in the series - the elusive 1922 “No D” penny. This error became one of the most iconic and sought-after varieties among collectors due to its unusual backstory and limited availability in high grades.

Whether you’re drawn to minting anomalies or collecting all the key dates of the Lincoln Cent series, the 1922-D and its “No D” variety are essential pieces in any serious U.S. coin collection.

A Year of Singular Minting and Striking Errors

In 1922, due to operational constraints and limited demand, the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints did not strike any Lincoln Cents. As a result, the Denver Mint was solely responsible for the nation’s one-cent coin production. With just 7,160,000 cents minted, 1922 became a low-production year - an unusual scenario that would soon be eclipsed by something even more noteworthy.

Due to overuse and improper maintenance of some of the Denver Mint’s coin dies, a small batch of Lincoln Cents struck that year show no visible mintmark, even though they were made in Denver. These “No D” varieties are not just curiosities - they are officially recognized by grading services like PCGS and NGC and are some of the most valuable Lincoln Cent errors in existence.

Image source: usacoinbook.com

About the Designer: Victor David Brenner

Like all Lincoln Wheat Cents, the 1922-D was designed by Victor David Brenner, the esteemed sculptor whose portrait of Lincoln has graced the one-cent coin since 1909. Although the controversy surrounding his “VDB” initials had passed by this point, Brenner’s design remained central to U.S. coinage and is still honored today.

His portrayal of Lincoln, inspired by a photograph from 1864, captures the 16th president’s strength and humility - traits that continue to resonate with collectors over a century later.

Coin Details and Specifications

• Mint: Denver

• Mint Mark: D (sometimes missing due to die wear)

• Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc

• Weight: 3.11 grams

• Diameter: 19.05 mm

• Edge: Plain

• Designer: Victor David Brenner

• Mintage: 7,160,000

• Obverse: Lincoln profile with “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the date “1922”

• Reverse: Two wheat ears with “ONE CENT,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”

The Famous 1922 “No D” Variety

How Did It Happen?

The “No D” 1922 penny is the result of heavily worn dies or over-polished dies at the Denver Mint. While all 1922 Lincoln Cents were technically produced in Denver, some coins appear to completely lack the mintmark due to deterioration or overuse of minting equipment.

Not all 1922 cents without a visible “D” are valuable. Only those with certain die characteristics are considered the authentic “No D Strong Reverse” variety, which shows a sharp reverse design and clear detail despite the missing mintmark.

Why the 1922-D and “No D” Penny Are So Valuable

1. Exclusive Minting

1922 is the only year in the Lincoln Cent series when coins were struck exclusively at the Denver Mint.

2. Recognized Mint Error

The “No D” error is a certified variety acknowledged by top grading services and has high demand among error coin specialists.

3. Scarcity in High Grades

Few 1922-D or “No D” cents exist in uncirculated condition, as most circulated heavily in the years following their release.

4. Key Variety for Registry Sets

For those assembling complete Lincoln Cent collections, including major varieties, the “No D” is absolutely essential.

Market Value and Investment Potential

Standard 1922-D (with “D” visible)

• Circulated: $20–$75

• Uncirculated: $200–$500+

1922 “No D” (Strong Reverse)

• Circulated: $500–$3,000+

• Uncirculated: $10,000–$25,000+

Key Value Factors:

• Mintmark Visibility: Only specific “No D” die pairs are valuable.

• Condition: As with all coins, higher grades fetch stronger premiums.

• Certification: Always buy “No D” pennies certified by PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity.

• Reverse Detail: Strong reverse detail confirms it’s the true “No D” variety.

A One-Year Wonder with Lasting Legacy

The 1922-D Lincoln Wheat Penny isn’t just a coin - it’s a moment in minting history. Whether you’re drawn to its role as the only Denver-only Lincoln Cent or captivated by the mysterious “No D” error, this coin delivers rarity, story, and value all in one. It's a cornerstone of both Lincoln Cent sets and error coin collections alike.