1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny Value
1999 · 1¢ · copper-plated zinc (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper)
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $5.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $25.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $100.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $500.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $1,500 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $7,500 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 Wide AM | Proof reverse die used on business strike — key variety | $100–$800 |
| 1998 Wide AM | Same type of error from the prior year | $10–$50 |
| 2000 Wide AM | Also exists for the following year | $10–$50 |
| 1999-S Proof Close AM | Business die used on proof — the inverse error | $50–$200 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Victor D. Brenner / Frank Gasparro
- Years
- 1999
- Denomination
- 1¢
- Composition
- copper-plated zinc (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper)
- Diameter
- 19 mm
- Weight
- 2.5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny: History & Background
The 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny is a notable variety error where a proof die was accidentally used to strike business-strike coins at the Philadelphia Mint. On normal 1999 circulation pennies, the A and M in AMERICA on the reverse are close together (Close AM), but on this error the letters are noticeably spaced apart (Wide AM), matching the proof die design. The discovery caused excitement among cherry-pickers — collectors who search circulation coins for valuable varieties. While not as rare as some errors, the 1999 Wide AM is scarce enough that well-preserved examples command significant premiums. Similar Wide AM and Close AM errors exist for 1998 and 2000 cents as well.
How to Grade a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →