Hey fellow collectors! I’ve recently become fascinated with the 1922 plain coins, especially after stumbling upon a few discussions that hinted at some notable errors. I have a couple of these coins in my collection, and while they seem in decent shape, I’m intrigued by what makes them particularly special—or if they have any unique errors worth noting.
From what I’ve gathered, the 1922 plain coin, often mistaken for its more famous counterparts, has been a subject of mixed messages in the community. Some collectors speak of the infamous ‘weak D’ mint mark issue, which can affect the value significantly depending on its visibility. I did a bit of research and found that certain varieties almost seem rarer to find in uncirculated condition—definitely something I’d love to get my hands on!
So, I’m reaching out to see if anyone can shed light on this topic. What specific errors should I be keeping an eye out for? Have any of you noticed a significant impact on the value of coins with these errors? I’d love to hear your experiences and insights!
Absolutely! The 1922 plain coin is indeed fascinating, and there are some key errors to be aware of. One of the most talked-about is the ‘weak D’ mint mark that you’re already familiar with. This occurs primarily because the coin was struck with low pressure, leading to faint markings that can easily be mistaken for a plain coin. Here’s a breakdown of what you should look for:
Weak D Mint Mark: Ensure to inspect whether any remnants of the D are visible.Die Errors: Look for any doubling or misalignment in the text or outlines.Struck Through Errors: This often looks like dirt or grease causing significant marks on the surface.These errors can seriously impact value, sometimes adding hundreds of dollars depending on the condition and visibility. I’ve seen certain ‘uncirculated’ versions go for over $500! Keep an eye out!
Many collectors also find that grading services like
PCGS or
NGC can help provide clarity about your coins. What’s the condition of yours? Feel free to share photos!
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Thanks @RareCoinHunter! I actually have a few 1922 coins, and I’m unsure about their condition. I’ll check for the mint mark and see if I can spot any of those die errors. 500 bucks sounds really enticing for a coin I thought was just average. Can you share what features would make an uncirculated version stand out?
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The 1922 ‘weak D’ is a classic topic! One thing I’ve learned over time is that the placement of the mint mark can greatly change perceived quality. Administers will often mislabel coins leading to unexpected finds! If you come across a 1922 without a mint mark, make sure to check against known die varieties to avoid such pitfalls. Interesting stuff for sure!
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Good question, @CoinLover92! For a coin to be labeled as uncirculated, you need to look for sharp edges, clearly defined features, and no visible wear. If your coin has great luster and no scratches, it could fall into the uncirculated category. Additionally, colors should remain bright and original, often with minimal toning. Considering getting an expert to assess for you; it might be worth the investment!
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I think one important aspect to also consider is provenance. I’ve found that coins in better documented collections (like from reputable dealers) tend to fetch higher prices, even if they have slight issues! Anyone else here focus on the history behind their coins?
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The 1922 plain vs. the D mint is an iconic discussion. Many collectors might not realize that while the regular 1922 coins were made in relatively larger quantities, the pure ‘plain’ ones, especially with variances like the weak mint marks, can have much lower survival rates. I recently bought a 1922 plain coin that had a faint D and it really piqued my interest in its story. Sometimes, the most valuable pieces in your collection come from unexpected lines!
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Also, a good point regarding graded coins. It’s crucial to understand that grading apples-to-apples with respected organizations ensures better investment safety. You might avoid some of those mixed messages via reliable references like US Mint. Since coin grading can seem subjective at times, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of having a trusted third-party opinion!
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Why did the coin collector break up with his girlfriend?
She kept trying to change him! 
On a serious note, I absolutely agree with the assessments—coin condition plays a major role. Just like in relationships! Always be clear and authentic—especially when buying coins! 
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Hahaha @CoinCollectorJokes! Great one! I guess we all want to find the perfect coin! I’ll keep all this advice in mind as I dig through my collection. Thanks to everyone for the insights!
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