A Hidden Treasure in Your Pocket
A 1999 Lincoln penny recently sold at auction for an astonishing $145,000, proving that pocket change can hold incredible value. This rare coin, known as the 1999 Wide AM penny, is a collector’s dream due to a minting error. The U.S. Mint accidentally used a proof die, meant for special collector coins, to strike some regular pennies in Philadelphia. This mistake created a small number of coins with a unique feature, making them highly valuable. With billions of pennies minted in 1999, finding one of these could turn your spare change into a small fortune.
What Makes the Wide AM Penny Special
The 1999 Wide AM penny stands out because of a noticeable gap between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the coin’s reverse side. Regular 1999 pennies have a “Close AM” design, where the letters nearly touch. The Wide AM variety also has the designer’s initials, “FG” (for Frank Gasparro), positioned farther from the Lincoln Memorial than on standard coins. This error happened when a proof die was mistakenly used for circulation coins, creating a rare variety. Only a few thousand are believed to exist, making them a hot item for collectors.
| Feature | Wide AM Penny | Regular Penny |
|---|---|---|
| AM Spacing | Clear gap between A and M | A and M nearly touch |
| FG Initials | Farther from Lincoln Memorial | Closer to Lincoln Memorial |
How to Identify a Wide AM Penny
To find a 1999 Wide AM penny, start by checking the date and mint mark. These coins were struck in Philadelphia, so they have no mint mark under the date. Next, examine the reverse side with a magnifying glass. Look for a clear space between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” Also, check the “FG” initials near the Lincoln Memorial; they should be farther away than on regular pennies. Be gentle when handling the coin to avoid damage, as scratches or cleaning can lower its value. For confirmation, send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Check Date | Look for 1999, no mint mark |
| Examine AM | Use magnifier for wide gap |
| Check FG | Initials far from Memorial |
| Get Graded | Submit to PCGS or NGC |
Why It’s Worth So Much
The $145,000 auction price reflects the coin’s rarity and condition. In 2006, a Wide AM penny graded MS66 sold for $138,000, and prices for top-quality examples have climbed since. Coins in mint condition, graded MS66 or higher, can fetch $1,000 to $4,000, while circulated ones may bring $50 to $150. The scarcity of these pennies, combined with growing collector interest, drives their value. With over 5 billion pennies minted in Philadelphia in 1999, finding a Wide AM is like finding a needle in a haystack, but it’s possible.
Tips for Coin Hunters
This record-breaking sale has sparked excitement among coin collectors, encouraging everyone to check their change. Look through coin jars, cash registers, or even vending machine returns. Use a 5x magnifier to inspect pennies carefully. Avoid cleaning coins, as this can ruin their value. If you think you’ve found a Wide AM penny, store it in a protective holder and contact a reputable dealer or auction house. The thrill of the hunt is real, and your next penny could be worth thousands.
A Reminder to Stay Curious
The 1999 Wide AM penny shows how a small mistake can create a big payoff. While most 1999 pennies are worth just one cent, a few rare ones are life-changing finds. This recent $145,000 sale reminds us to stay curious and check our change. You never know when a simple penny could turn into a collector’s jackpot, making every coin worth a second look.