Type I - the first photo, Type II rev. (proof) - the second photo, Type II rev (business strike) - the third photo. Most everone can easily tell the difference between the 1998, 1999, and 2000 type I (close AM) and type II (wide AM) Lincoln reverse which is identified by the speperation between the A and M in 'America.' This is the first indication and the easiect way to tell the difference between the two reverses. If there is a question of authenticity of the variety it may be helpful to refer to the designers initials 'FG.' For the type I reverse (close AM), in the letter 'G' it will look square with no real detail. For the type II reverse (wide AM), in the letter 'G' it will have much more defined serifs as depicted in the last two photos. The second photo included is I took from an actual proof coin as you can see the similarities being that the type II reverse is that found on proof coins. Please feel free to post comments, questions or imput. The first three people to due so I will mail them a complimentory example of the 2000 type II reverse (wide AM) in au-unc.
Very interesting, I think I'll need to put those years aside when I roll search pennies from now on. Any clue how many are estimated to have been minted of each year?
The 1998 and 2000 are fairly common and still can be found in circulation. The 1999 is far more scarce and has a nice premium attatched to it. For proof coins for 1998 and 1999 you can look for the opposite variety. The close AM are quite scarce and can hold a very nice premium.
Just check out this site. It tells you what to look for and what dates http://www.lincolncentresource.com/wideams.html
Frank Gasparro was a sans serif guy. Therefore, it seems strange that the type II has serifs on the G. Then again, it is strange that type II is an older version than type I.
I could use an unc 2000. They are much harder to find searching than the 98 in my area. I've only found perhaps 2 or 4 in circ and I've found 3x that 98's. PM me and I'll even send you a trade of some sort.
In addition to the serif difference, the FG on a close AM is significantly closer to the memorial then on a wide AM. The distance difference is about as noticeable as the distance between the A and the M, so it's another quick and easy diagnostic.
Thanks beef1020, Between the photos it is very noticable in the space between the F and the Lincoln memorial.
Very interesting observation. I did not know that. I do believe from 89-93 the FG in business strike coins did have somewhat of a mushy sans serif. In 1988 there was variation in the initials.
