What Does the D Mint Mark on Coins Mean?

Coins often carry small markings that provide insights into their origins and history. These indicators, known as mint marks, identify where a coin was produced. Understanding these marks allows enthusiasts to delve deeper into a coin’s narrative.

Understanding the ‘D’ Mint Mark

The ‘D’ mint mark signifies a coin was produced at the United States Mint facility in Denver, Colorado. The Denver Mint began coinage operations on February 1, 1906, though its history as a U.S. Assay Office dates back to 1863, following the Colorado Gold Rush. It initially produced gold and silver coins, and quickly became a significant producer, with its output sometimes exceeding that of older, more established mints in its early years. It has consistently produced a wide array of circulating coinage, such as Lincoln pennies, Kennedy half dollars, and steel pennies during World War II. Today, the Denver Mint is one of the world’s largest coin producers, capable of minting over 50 million coins daily, established due to the need for a coining facility closer to western gold and silver discoveries.

Other Common Mint Marks

The ‘P’ mint mark denotes coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the first U.S. Mint established in 1792. For much of its history, coins produced in Philadelphia did not carry a mint mark. The ‘P’ appeared briefly on certain wartime nickels and consistently on most denominations since 1980, excluding the cent. The Philadelphia Mint has always been a primary producer of U.S. coinage.

The ‘S’ mint mark identifies coins from the San Francisco Mint, which began operations in 1854. This mint was established to convert gold from the California Gold Rush into circulating currency. Historically, San Francisco produced a wide range of circulating coins, but since 1975, its output has largely focused on proof and commemorative coins for collectors.

A ‘W’ mint mark signifies production at the West Point Mint in New York. Established in 1937 as a bullion depository, West Point gained full mint status in 1988. It initially produced circulating cents without a mint mark. The ‘W’ mark first appeared on a $10 gold commemorative coin in 1983. Today, the West Point Mint primarily produces American Eagle bullion coins in gold, silver, and platinum, along with commemorative coins.

Finding Mint Marks on Your Coins

Locating a mint mark on a coin varies by denomination and year. On Lincoln cents, it is typically on the obverse (front) side, below the date. For Jefferson nickels, it is usually on the front, at the base of Jefferson’s bust, except for wartime nickels (1942-1945) where it is on the reverse (back) above Monticello’s dome. On Roosevelt dimes, Washington quarters, and half dollars (like the Kennedy half dollar), the mint mark is generally on the front, below the bust or date. Many coins minted before 1965 had their mint marks on the reverse, while those minted from 1968 onwards often have them on the obverse.