Is Your 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and 1922 No D Lincoln Cent Real? Authentication Guide

Historical Significance

The Lincoln cent series stands as one of the most cherished collections in American numismatics. Among these, certain dates shine as legendary rarities, commanding premium prices in the marketplace. The 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and 1922 No D varieties represent three of the most sought-after key dates in the series, each with its own fascinating story and unique diagnostic characteristics.

The 1909-S VDB marks the first year of the Lincoln cent series and features the controversial initials of designer Victor David Brenner on the reverse. Only 484,000 pieces were struck at the San Francisco Mint before public outcry led to their removal. The 1914-D saw a mintage of just 1,193,000 pieces, while the 1922 No D variety resulted from a die clash error at the Denver Mint that virtually erased the mintmark from worn dies.

Authentication Guide: Critical Diagnostic Points

1909-S VDB Authentication

Weight verification is the first critical test for any 1909-S VDB cent. Genuine specimens should weigh exactly 3.11 grams, composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. Use a precision digital scale that measures to at least 0.01 grams for accurate results.

Magnetic testing is straightforward for this coin – genuine 1909-S VDB cents are non-magnetic. Any magnetic attraction indicates a counterfeit, likely made from steel or containing magnetic components.

The S mintmark authentication requires careful examination. According to NGC, this coin shows Position #3 with the S about halfway under the 0 in the date. The S should appear compressed and slightly tilted, not spread open as seen on many counterfeits. The serif at the top of the S should be distinct and well-defined.

Common fakes often show the S mintmark as too large, too spread out, or incorrectly shaped. Many counterfeits are made by altering 1909 Philadelphia VDB cents or by adding an S to other dates. Die markers to examine include the position and style of the VDB initials, which should be sharp and well-centered on the reverse.

1914-D Authentication

Genuine 1914-D cents also weigh 3.11 grams and are non-magnetic. The D mintmark should be small, well-defined, and positioned correctly relative to the date. On authentic specimens, the D appears slightly tilted and positioned close to the bow knot on the reverse.

A concerning observation from the forum discussion notes that the reverse of the 1914-D specimen appears “odd” and “looks silvery” at the rim at 8 o’clock position. This silvery appearance could indicate environmental damage, improper cleaning, or potentially a counterfeit. Authentic copper cents should not display silvery toning in isolated areas.

Die markers for the 1914-D include specific characteristics of the wheat ear details and the position of the D mintmark relative to surrounding design elements. The date itself should show specific spacing and serif characteristics unique to genuine 1914-D dies.

1922 No D Authentication

The 1922 No D variety requires the most nuanced authentication approach. This variety resulted from die wear rather than a true “no mintmark” situation. The coin should weigh 3.11 grams and be non-magnetic like other Lincoln cents of this era.

Die Pair #3 is identified as having both “Faint D” and “No D” states. Authentication requires examining the reverse for any trace of the D mintmark, particularly in the lower loop where die wear was most severe. The reverse is described as “the most heavily worn reverse in the 1922 Cent universe” – even Mint State coins show Fair-2 level detail on the reverse.

Grading this variety presents unique challenges. As noted in the discussion, “The coins must be graded from the obverse, which is at least a VG with a shot at Fine.” The reverse detail is so worn that it cannot be used for grading purposes.

Testing Methods and Tools

Professional authentication requires multiple testing approaches:

• Precision Scale: Digital scale measuring to 0.01 grams minimum
• Magnet Test: Strong neodymium magnet for detecting ferrous components
• Magnification: 10x to 30x loupe for examining die markers and mintmark details
• Reference Materials: Cherrypicker’s Guide, NGC population reports, and die variety references
• Comparison Photos: Side-by-side comparison with known genuine specimens

Common Fakes and Alterations

The forum discussion highlights important concerns about counterfeit 1909-S VDB cents. Common forgery techniques include:

• Adding an S mintmark to 1909 Philadelphia VDB cents
• Altering other S-mint dates to appear as 1909-S
• Creating entirely counterfeit dies with incorrect letter shapes and spacing
• Using incorrect metal compositions that may be magnetic or weigh incorrectly

The 1914-D is also frequently counterfeited due to its value. Common alterations include changing the last digit of 1944-D cents or other dates to appear as 1914-D.

For the 1922 No D, most counterfeits are actually altered 1922-D cents where the D has been removed or worn away. Authentication requires examining the area where the D should appear for evidence of tooling or unnatural wear patterns.

Professional Grading Considerations

The forum presents divided opinions on whether these coins should be professionally graded. Several key points emerge:

“IMO I think these coins should always be graded even if details because there’s so much doubt around legitimacy. And Im someone who gets really grouchy about how everyone wants to slab everything these days.”

Another collector notes that for coins valued at $1,500 or more total, “spending 10% of that amount for authentication/encapsulation is a wise thing to do.”

However, there’s also the consideration that PCGS may no longer certify weak reverse 1922 No D coins, making grading of that particular variety potentially unnecessary.

Current Market Grades and Values

Based on the forum discussion, suggested grades are:

• 1909-S VDB: VF20 to VF25 (slightly lower than the original poster’s VF35 estimate)
• 1914-D: F15 (matching the original poster’s estimate)
• 1922 No D: G04 to G06 (slightly lower than the original poster’s G4 estimate)

These grades reflect conservative professional assessment. The 1909-S VDB shows wear on the high points of Lincoln’s portrait and the wheat stalks, consistent with VF20-25. The 1914-D shows more extensive wear but retains readable details, fitting F15. The 1922 No D shows heavy wear with the date and motto still visible, consistent with G4-6.

Authentication Conclusion

Authentication of these three legendary Lincoln cent varieties requires a multi-faceted approach combining weight verification, magnetic testing, careful examination of mintmark characteristics, and comparison with known genuine specimens. The 1909-S VDB requires particular attention to the S mintmark shape and position. The 1914-D needs examination for the silvery appearance noted in the discussion, which could indicate problems. The 1922 No D requires understanding that it’s actually a Die Pair #3 variety with specific diagnostic characteristics.

For collectors and investors, professional authentication through PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended for the 1909-S VDB and 1914-D, given their significant value and the prevalence of counterfeits. The 1922 No D presents a more complex situation due to potential grading service limitations.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply verifying a family heirloom, understanding these authentication points is essential in today’s market where counterfeits continue to increase in sophistication. When in doubt, consult with professional numismatists and consider third-party authentication for these valuable key date Lincoln cents.

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