Wide AM vs. Close AM Lincoln Cents: A Comprehensive Guide
The Wide AM and Close AM designations in Lincoln Memorial cents refer to the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the coin’s reverse side. These variations resulted from the U.S. Mint’s use of different reverse dies, leading to collectible anomalies.
1. Key Differences: Wide AM vs. Close AM
| Feature | Wide AM | Close AM |
|---|---|---|
| Spacing Between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” | Wide gap between “A” and “M”. | “A” and “M” are almost touching. |
| Designer’s Initials “FG” Positioning | Closer to the Lincoln Memorial. | Farther from the Lincoln Memorial. |
| Intended Usage | Standard on proof coins (1959-1992). Some business strikes (1998, 1999, 2000) mistakenly have this feature. | Standard on business strikes (1993 onward). Some proofs (1998-S, 1999-S) mistakenly have this feature. |
| Rarity | 1998, 1999, 2000 Wide AM business strikes are scarce. 1999-S Wide AM proof is extremely rare. | 1992 & 1992-D Close AM business strikes are extremely rare. |
WATCH THIS VIDEO: Wide AM vs Close AM Lincoln Cents
2. Notable Years, Mintage Figures & Valuation
| Year | Type | Estimated Mintage | Approximate Value (Ungraded) | Approximate Value (MS67+) | Highest Sales Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Close AM (Business Strike) | Unknown (Rare) | $500+ | $5,000-$25,000+ | $25,850 (MS67 RD, Heritage, 2017) |
| 1992-D | Close AM (Business Strike) | Unknown (Rare) | $2 50+ | $4,000-$20,000+ | $20,700 (MS67 RD, Heritage, 2012) |
| 1998 | Wide AM (Business Strike) | 5.16 billion | $5-$20 | $250-$2,500+ | $3,525 (MS67 RD, Heritage, 2013) |
| 1999 | Wide AM (Business Strike) | 5.23 billion | $20-$100 | $500-$5,000+ | $9,775 (MS67 RD, Heritage, 2018) |
| 2000 | Wide AM (Business Strike) | 5.5 billion | $5-$10 | $150-$2,000+ | $5,875 (MS67 RD, Heritage, 2008) |
| 1999-S | Wide AM (Proof) | 3.34 million | $100-$300 | $1,500-$7,000+ | $7,637 (PR69 DCAM, Heritage, 2009) |
3. Historical Sales & Market Trends Over the Last Decade
Ungraded Specimens & Collector Demand
- 1992 & 1992-D Close AM → Highly desirable even in circulated condition, with values ranging from $500 to $1,500. High-grade examples continue to set records.
- 1998-2000 Wide AM → More commonly found in circulation, with prices $5-$50 for lower grades. Higher grades see strong auction demand.
- 1999-S Wide AM Proof → One of the most sought-after proof errors, often commanding $100-$300 ungraded and significantly more in high grades.
Graded Specimens & Auction Records
- 1992 Close AM (MS67 RD) → Sold for $25,850 in 2017.
- 1992-D Close AM (MS67 RD) → Sold for $20,700 in 2012.
- 1999 Wide AM (MS67 RD) → Sold for $9,775 in 2018.
- 2000 Wide AM (MS67 RD) → Sold for $5,875 in 2008.
- 1999-S Wide AM Proof (PR69 DCAM) → Sold for $7,637 in 2009.
4. Market Trends & Investment Potential
- 1992 Close AM Business Strikes → Prices remain strong for MS66+ examples. Collectors and investors continue to chase high-grade specimens.
- 1998-2000 Wide AM Business Strikes → Prices peaked in the 2010s, but remain stable.
- 1999-S Wide AM Proofs → Consistently gaining value, particularly in PR69 Deep Cameo grades.
Final Takeaway
The 1992 Close AM cents (both Philadelphia and Denver) remain the most valuable varieties, while the 1998-2000 Wide AM cents offer excellent collector opportunities. Proof errors like the 1999-S Wide AM add further excitement.
These varieties are historically strong performers in auctions, making them a solid addition to any error coin collection.
Sources for Verification:
