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 →
What Affects 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny Value?
Condition & Grade
The grade spread for 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys is dramatic: a common-date example jumps from $5.00 in Poor to $500.00 in Uncirculated — a 100× increase. Gem-quality MS-65 specimens can reach $1,500 or more. Even a single grade point difference at the upper end can double a coin's price.
Date & Mintmark
The 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny series has 4 notable key dates. The 1999 Wide AM is valued at $100–$800, far above common dates. Mintmark location and variety (such as overdates or repunched marks) can multiply a coin's value significantly.
Collector Demand
As a copper-plated zinc (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper) coin, the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny derives its value entirely from collector demand rather than metal content. This makes condition and rarity even more important — heavily worn common dates may trade near face value, while key dates and high-grade examples command strong premiums.
Strike Quality & Eye Appeal
Designed by Victor D. Brenner / Frank Gasparro, the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny (19mm diameter) can exhibit varying strike quality across different mint facilities and years. Coins with full, sharp design details, original luster, and attractive toning trade at premiums of 20–50% above the same technical grade with average eye appeal.
Collector Notes: 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny
The 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny (1999) holds a distinctive place in US numismatics. Designed by Victor D. Brenner / Frank Gasparro, this 1¢ coin was struck in copper-plated zinc (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper) with a diameter of 19mm and weight of 2.5 grams. These physical specifications are essential for authentication — any deviation from these measurements is a red flag for counterfeits.
Collectors approaching the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny series should start by assembling a date-and-mintmark set in a consistent grade. Fine (F-12) offers a good balance of affordability and visual appeal for most dates, with clear design elements still visible. Budget roughly $100.00 per common date in Fine condition, then set aside a larger budget for the 4 key dates in the series.
For registry set collectors pursuing top grades, the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny in MS-65 or better represents a more significant investment at $1,500+ per coin. Population reports from PCGS and NGC show that the supply of certified high-grade examples is limited, and competition among registry set collectors has driven premiums for condition-census coins.
Before purchasing any 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny valued above $100, we recommend reviewing our 2026 US Coin Values Quick Reference PDF ($2.99) which includes a complete grade-by-grade price breakdown and key date identification guide for this series.
1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny: Frequently Asked Questions
▶How much is a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny worth today?
A 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny (1999) is worth between $5.00 in Poor condition and $500.00 or more in Uncirculated condition. In the most commonly found Fine grade, expect around $100.00. Gem specimens graded MS-65 can reach $1,500 or higher. Values fluctuate with collector demand.
▶What is the most valuable 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
The most valuable 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny is the 1999 Wide AM — proof reverse die used on business strike — key variety. This date is valued at $100–$800 depending on grade and condition. Always have potentially valuable dates authenticated by PCGS or NGC before selling.
▶How do I grade a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
Grading a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny starts with examining the highest points of the design, where wear appears first. Look for remaining luster, sharpness of details, and surface marks. The Sheldon scale runs from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect). For this series, the jump from Fine (F-12, worth ~$100.00) to Uncirculated (MS-63, worth ~$500.00) is significant. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC costs $20–$50 per coin and is recommended for coins that appear to be worth $100 or more. Our PDF guide ($2.99) includes a visual grading chart for this series.
▶Where is the best place to sell 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys?
For common-date 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys in circulated grades, local coin shops and eBay are practical options — expect 70–85% of retail value. For key dates or high-grade examples, Heritage Auctions or Stack's Bowers will reach the most serious buyers and typically achieve the strongest prices. PCGS or NGC certification is essential before consigning valuable coins to auction. For a detailed selling strategy, see our selling guide.
▶Are there error varieties of the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
Yes. Known 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny errors include doubled die obverses and reverses, repunched mintmarks, off-center strikes, and die cracks. This series has notable varieties such as the 1998 Wide AM. Always examine coins under magnification to check for die doubling, especially on lettering and dates.
▶How can I tell if my 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny is real?
Authentic 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys weigh 2.5 grams and measure 19 mm in diameter. Check the weight with a precision scale (digital scales accurate to 0.01g are available for under $20). The coin should be composed of copper-plated zinc (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper). Counterfeit coins often fail the weight test, show seams on the edge, or have mushy design details. For valuable dates, always obtain PCGS or NGC authentication — the cost is minimal compared to the risk of buying or selling a counterfeit.
▶What affects the value of a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny the most?
The four biggest value drivers for 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys are: (1) Grade — the difference between Good and Uncirculated is $475.00 for common dates; (2) Date and mintmark — key dates like 1999 Wide AM command large premiums; (3) Eye appeal — original surfaces, attractive toning, and strong strikes increase desirability among collectors.
▶How many 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys were made?
The 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny was produced from 1999. Mintage varied widely by year and mint — some dates had millions struck while key dates had far fewer. The scarce 1999 Wide AM is especially sought after. Check our full value table above for key dates and their relative scarcity.
▶Should I clean my 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny?
Never clean a 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny or any collectible coin. Cleaning removes the original surface and patina, which collectors prize — a cleaned coin can lose 50% or more of its value compared to an original, naturally toned example. Even coins that look "dirty" often have desirable original toning. If you must remove loose debris, hold the coin by its edges and gently rinse with distilled water. Our coin storage guide has more preservation tips.
▶Is the 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny a good investment?
1999 Wide AM Lincoln Pennys in key dates and high grades have historically appreciated well. Common dates in circulated grades are affordable entry points. For investment purposes, focus on PCGS/NGC-certified examples in grades of Fine or better, and prioritize key dates with low mintages. Our PDF Quick Reference Guide ($2.99) covers all 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny dates and values to help identify the best opportunities.