Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1922 No D Lincoln Cent

The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in American numismatics. Its scarcity, combined with its unique origin, has made it a favorite among collectors. Unfortunately, this fame has also attracted counterfeiters who seek to replicate its rarity for profit. Understanding how to detect counterfeits is critical for collectors who want to ensure authenticity in their collections.

The Story Behind the 1922 No D Lincoln Cent

In 1922, the Denver Mint was the only U.S. Mint striking Lincoln cents, as the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints had suspended production. During this time, worn dies caused a curious minting anomaly—some coins were struck without the “D” mintmark. Instead of stopping production to replace the dies, the mint pressed forward, resulting in a subset of coins with a weak or entirely missing “D.”

The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent was never intentional; it’s a product of the mint’s operational challenges. This unique characteristic has made it one of the most famous mint anomalies, sparking significant interest among collectors and, unfortunately, counterfeiters.

How Counterfeits Are Created

There are two primary methods counterfeiters use to fake a 1922 No D Lincoln Cent:

1. Altering Other 1922 Denver Cents:
   Counterfeiters often file down or buff out the “D” mintmark on a standard 1922 Denver Mint cent, creating the appearance of a No D variety. This is one of the most common methods of counterfeiting and often leaves traces of tampering.
2. Manipulating Coins from Other Years or Mints:
   Another method involves altering Lincoln cents from different years or mints to mimic the characteristics of the 1922 No D variety. This typically involves adding wear patterns to disguise the changes.

Detecting Counterfeit 1922 No D Lincoln Cents

To spot counterfeits, collectors should familiarize themselves with the specific attributes of a genuine 1922 No D Lincoln Cent. Here are key points to consider:

1. Weak Reverse Strike:
   Authentic 1922 No D cents have a distinct weak reverse strike due to die wear and misalignment. Counterfeits often fail to replicate this characteristic accurately.
2. Diagnostic Die Features:
   Genuine No D cents originate from specific die pairings. For example, Die Pair 2 is the most commonly accepted variety, identifiable by its weak obverse details and pronounced reverse die cracks. Collectors should compare coins with high-resolution images of known genuine examples.
3. Tampering Evidence:
   Examine the coin under magnification for signs of tampering around the area where the mintmark should appear. Filing, polishing, or buffing marks can indicate an altered coin.
4. Third-Party Grading Services:
   The most reliable way to ensure authenticity is to purchase coins certified by reputable grading companies like PCGS or NGC. These organizations use advanced technology and expertise to verify coins’ legitimacy.

Conclusion

The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is a captivating piece of U.S. Mint history that any collector would be proud to own. However, its popularity makes it a target for counterfeiters. By learning the key diagnostic features and working with trusted sources, collectors can protect themselves from fakes and enjoy the satisfaction of owning this numismatic treasure. As with any rare coin, vigilance and education are essential tools in the battle against counterfeits.

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