Pennies are often dismissed as insignificant, but for coin collectors, they can hold immense value. Among the most intriguing coins is the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny, a rare variety that has captured the attention of numismatists and casual enthusiasts alike. This elusive penny, worth thousands and potentially millions of dollars, is still occasionally found in circulation, making it a thrilling discovery for anyone lucky enough to stumble upon it. Let’s explore the history, rarity, and value of the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny, along with tips on how to identify it.
The Lincoln Memorial Penny Series
The Lincoln Memorial Penny series was introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the reverse side features the Lincoln Memorial, replacing the wheat stalks seen on earlier pennies. This design remained in use until 2008, making it one of the longest-running coin designs in U.S. history.
While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are common and worth only their face value, certain varieties and errors have become highly sought after by collectors. Among these, the Wide AM pennies from 1998, 1999, and 2000 stand out as particularly valuable.
What Is the Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
The term “Wide AM” refers to the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side of the penny. On regular business strike pennies, these letters are closer together, known as “Close AM.” However, due to a minting error, some pennies were struck with the Wide AM design intended for proof coins.
This error occurred during the production of pennies at the Philadelphia Mint in 1999. The use of the proof die for regular business strike coins resulted in a small number of Wide AM pennies entering circulation. These coins are rare and highly valuable, especially in uncirculated condition.
Why Is the 1999 Wide AM Penny So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the value of the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny:
- Rarity: The Wide AM variety was produced in limited quantities, making it scarce and highly desirable.
- Minting Error: Coins with errors are often more valuable due to their uniqueness and appeal to collectors.
- Condition: Uncirculated or mint-state examples of the 1999 Wide AM penny are worth significantly more than those that show signs of wear.
- Collector Demand: The intrigue surrounding this coin has driven up its value, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for a piece of history.
In pristine condition, the 1999 Wide AM penny can fetch thousands of dollars at auction. Some examples have even been valued in the millions, depending on their grade and provenance.
How to Identify a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny
If you suspect you might have a 1999 Wide AM penny, here’s how to identify it:
- Check the Date: Look for the year 1999 on the obverse side of the coin.
- Examine the Reverse: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” On a Wide AM penny, the letters will be clearly separated.
- Look for Other Details: The Wide AM penny also features a more defined design, with sharper details on the Lincoln Memorial and the initials “FG” (Frank Gasparro) near the base of the memorial.
- Seek Professional Appraisal: If you believe you’ve found a Wide AM penny, consider having it authenticated and graded by a reputable coin grading service.
Other Valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies
While the 1999 Wide AM penny is a standout, several other Lincoln Memorial pennies are worth noting:
1. 1998 Wide AM Penny
Similar to the 1999 variety, the 1998 Wide AM penny was produced due to a minting error. It is slightly less rare but still highly valuable.
2. 2000 Wide AM Penny
The 2000 Wide AM penny is another example of this intriguing error. Like its counterparts, it is sought after by collectors and can fetch impressive sums.
3. 1992 Close AM Penny
The Close AM penny from 1992 is the opposite of the Wide AM variety, with the letters “A” and “M” closer together than usual. This coin is also rare and valuable.
4. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
This error coin features doubling on the reverse side, making it a favorite among collectors.
5. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
The 1995 Doubled Die penny displays doubling on the obverse side, particularly in the text “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.”
Why Might the 1999 Wide AM Penny Still Be in Circulation?
Despite its rarity, the 1999 Wide AM penny occasionally appears in circulation. This is likely due to the fact that many people are unaware of its value and treat it as an ordinary penny. Additionally, the subtle nature of the error makes it easy to overlook.
For collectors, this means there’s still a chance to find a valuable coin in everyday pocket change. The thrill of discovery adds an element of excitement to the hobby, inspiring enthusiasts to keep searching.
The Joy of Coin Collecting
Coin collecting is more than just a hobby it’s a journey through history and a treasure hunt rolled into one. Rare coins like the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny offer a glimpse into the complexities of minting and the stories behind each piece of currency. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual enthusiast, the possibility of finding a valuable coin in your collection is exhilarating.
Final Thoughts
The 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny is a testament to the fascinating world of numismatics. Its rarity, historical significance, and potential value make it a coveted treasure for collectors. While the chances of finding one are slim, the possibility adds a sense of adventure to the everyday act of handling coins.
So, the next time you’re sorting through your pocket change or examining an old coin jar, take a closer look. You might just uncover a piece of history and perhaps even a fortune.
FAQs
What is the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
The 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny is a rare coin that features a minting error where the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” is wider than usual. This error occurred when proof dies were mistakenly used to strike business strike coins.
How can I identify a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
Look for the year 1999 on the obverse side and use a magnifying glass to check the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” On a Wide AM penny, these letters will be clearly separated. The coin will also have a more defined design with sharper details on the Lincoln Memorial.
Why is the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny so valuable?
The value of the 1999 Wide AM penny comes from its rarity, being a minting error, and its high collector demand. Uncirculated examples can fetch thousands of dollars, and some even reach millions, depending on their condition.
How much can a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny be worth?
A 1999 Wide AM penny in mint or uncirculated condition can be worth thousands, with some reaching into the millions of dollars depending on factors like rarity, condition, and provenance.
How do I know if my penny is a Wide AM?
Inspect the spacing between the “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side. If the letters are noticeably separated, you likely have a Wide AM penny. A magnifying glass can help with this.
