I agree, I found a 1997 lincoln penny in BU condition as well with the AM close touching each other. This could be one of the over looked coin in the 90's. This is the honest truth some of the 1997s definitemy has the AM touching and I can prove it.
Did you read any of the explanations given on this old thread? 1997 are Close AM.. no need to prove it. Unless you want to start your own unique thread to show pictures and ask questions. We can help you! Most of the members in the beginning of this thread are no longer on CoinTalk. It is from 2009 And.. Welcome to CoinTalk