The 2004 Red Book lists an error for some 1998, 1999, and 2000 pennies described as "Wide AM" -- a wide space between the "A" and the "M" in "America." Unfortunately, the book does not include a picture of this particular error. Does anyone have a picture of this that they can post or provide link to? I've found a 1998 with a space between the "A" and the "M" that is noticeably larger than all the other pennies I compare it to. Still, it is not a large space by any means. I'm curious whether I've found a "Wide AM" example, or if I am splitting hairs. Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance, Dymaxion
This type of coin is in referrence to a proof reverse die being used. The letters are not attached at the base. If the A and M in America are touching, this is not the variety talked about. I will look around for a photo.
Ask and you shall receive To the best of my knowledge the variety exists on '98 - '99 and 2000 cents with the '99 being the hardest to find. But the variety is the same for all 3 yrs - as in this picture at the Coin World site. Wide A M cent
Thanks! That article is exactly what I needed. Looking at the "AM" spacing picture at the top of the article has me optimistic about my penny, but will need magnification to check the other distinguishing features mentioned in the article. Say mine is of the "Wide AM" variety: Do the grading services authenticate error coins such as these in addition to grading them? If so, any idea what it would cost? Is it worth it for something of limited value like this? Guy -- Unless I've missed something, the Red Book only seems to mention this error for 1998, 1999, and 2000. I appreciate your help! Dymaxion
You will have to check with the grading services to see if they attribute these varieties. Being they are listed in the Red Book, I would venture to guess that all do.
Yes they do,and I believe the 1998 is the better year for the proof reverse Cents. Definately get it to a show and/or contact PCGS,NGC or ANACS. I'm sure they'll all certify it if it's problem free. ~ Jim
After reviewing (with a magnifying glass) the other distinguishing features mentioned in the article provided by GDJMSP, I do believe that it is a proof reverse. I'll investigate whether it is worthwhile to get checked/certified. Another question jumps to mind though. I suppose some (non-error) proof coins must make their way into circulation. Although I think that this penny does indeed have a proof reverse, should I be checking that it does not also have a proof obverse? If it is just a proof coin that made its way into circulation, it would not have the value of the error coin we are discussing, I presume. Any thoughts on this? Does anyone have information that would help me distinguish between proof and non-proof obverse, if this is necessary? Thanks again for all of your help! Dymaxion
All proof Lincoln's dated after 1974 have the "S" mintmark. Proof coins are minted differently than business strike coins, and usually are very easy to spot. The fields around the image are heavily polished. They stand out. The error that you have been discussing is a strange error. The reverse die used, was created for the San Francisco Mint, but for one reason or another was put into use by the Philly Mint. They did not however treat the die as a proof die. They did not polish it excessively. So if your coin does not have a mintmark on the obverse, along with the reverse that has been discussed you can be sure it is a business strike error.
Are there any documented "AM" errors prior to 1998. I have a 1987 "P" mint with the same characteristics.
I think you'll find that all business strike cents prior to '98 have these characteristics. In was only in '98 and after that the change was made.
I found a 1998 and 2000 and sent them to ANACS to have graded and slabbed. I think it was about $17 each. IF they are in good shape (MS-65 or better) then probably worth it by getting a little more than the cost. I found the best way to tell the difference is the initials (FG) on the reverse. Here is a good site to show the differences. Good luck! http://www.lincolncentresource.com/wideams.html
