Close AM and Wide AM Lincoln Penny Varieties
The Close AM and Wide AM varieties are among the most exciting modern Lincoln cent finds. The spacing between the A and M in AMERICA on the reverse differs between business strike and proof dies, and certain year/type combinations are extremely rare and valuable.
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1992 Close AM
Business strike 1992 pennies normally have Wide AM spacing. A small number were struck from proof dies with Close AM spacing, making them extremely rare.
How to check: Examine the AM in AMERICA on the reverse. If the A and M nearly touch at the base, it is the rare Close AM variety.
$5,000 - $25,000+1998 Wide AM
Business strike 1998 pennies normally have Close AM. A few were struck from business dies with Wide AM spacing.
How to check: Check the AM in AMERICA on the reverse. If A and M are clearly separated at the base, it is the Wide AM variety.
$100 - $5001999 Wide AM
Similar to the 1998, some 1999 pennies show Wide AM spacing instead of the expected Close AM.
How to check: Check the AM in AMERICA on the reverse for clear separation between the letters at their base.
$100 - $5002000 Wide AM
Some 2000 pennies show Wide AM spacing. This is the most common of the Wide AM varieties but still collectable.
How to check: Examine the AM spacing in AMERICA on the reverse.
$25 - $200Quick Checks
- Close AM: Letters A and M nearly touch at the base
- Wide AM: Letters A and M are clearly separated at the base
- Check 1992 pennies first — Close AM 1992 cents are worth $5,000+
- 1998-2000 pennies: Look for Wide AM spacing
- Use a magnifying glass for best results — the difference is small
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Close AM / Wide AM penny?
It refers to the spacing between A and M in AMERICA on the reverse of Lincoln cents. Proof dies and business strike dies used different spacing, and occasionally the wrong dies were used, creating rare varieties.
How much is a 1992 Close AM penny worth?
A genuine 1992 Close AM Lincoln cent is worth $5,000 to $25,000+, making it one of the most valuable modern Lincoln cent errors.
How do I check my pennies for AM varieties?
Flip the coin to the reverse and look at AMERICA. Focus on the base of the A and M. Close AM means they nearly touch. Wide AM means clear separation. Upload to ErrorHunt for AI verification.
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