1999 Penny: A Regular Coin with Irregular Worth

Coin collecting is a complicated endeavor, and the value of numismatic opportunities is always high. Take the 1999 penny, for example – while it seems like an ordinary instance of regular circulation, this could be hiding the extraordinary examples of rarity, flaws, and deviations, making it a unique milestone on the edge of millenniums.

What makes an ordinary coin like the 1999 penny so different? What is the average 1999 penny worth, and which aspects to note in order to identify these coins with ease? Let us reveal some fascinating factors that might turn pocket change into collectibles together. 

Quick Overview of the Lincoln Memorial Cent Series

A major turning point in American coinage was reached in 1959 with the introduction of the Lincoln Memorial Cent series. So as to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, this series replaced the beloved and cherished Wheat Cent with a new coin that depicted Victor David Brenner's famous profile of Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. on the reverse side.

The Lincoln Memorial Cent, which was struck in copper-based alloys until 1982 like 1964 pennies and then in zinc with a thin copper plating, became a commonplace piece of currency in the US. Millions of these pieces were produced during its 50-year lifespan, from 1959 to 2008, which makes it one of the most well-known currencies worldwide.

Even though the series is widely used, there are many collectible versions, such as proof coins, unusual mint errors, and minor design deviations. Due to these anomalies, numismatists are now interested in specific Lincoln Memorial Cents, such as the 1999 Close AM Penny, 1999 No Mint Mark Penny, or other unusual issues. 

Physical Characteristics of the 1999 Lincoln Penny

A tiny yet recognizable piece of American currency, the 1999 Lincoln Cent is a member of the Lincoln Memorial Cent series, and its composition and design pay tribute to the eternal norms of coinage while reflecting the evolution of the penny. 

The 1999 penny is indeed a typical representative of its series because of these features, yet deviations such as the Wide AM 1999 Penny error and the like can give this otherwise common coin a higher level of worth and mystery.

Mint Marks and Variants of 1999 Pennies Worth Money

1999 Penny error list, as well as its regular option, includes numerous numismatic abnormalities that may make certain coins especially valuable to collectors. Not to mention, the value of the 1999 penny is to alter depending on the coin’s place of origin (i.e., a mint) and its overall condition starting with its face value for circulating options up to thousands of dollars. Let us discover various types one by one.

1. 1999 Penny No Mint Mark (Philadelphia Mint)

As such, Philadelphia-minted pennies usually do not have any mint mark at all. Coins in perfect condition graded MS-67 or higher, can fetch $10 to $20, though most of these circulating instances are worth face value only.

2. 1999 D Penny (Denver Mint) 

Those coins that bear the "D" mint mark are always produced by the Denver Mint, which is obvious. Generally speaking, they are just as plentiful as their Philadelphia equivalents, but premium examples or those instances with distinctive flaws could command a higher price.

3. Wide AM Variant (Philadelphia Mint)

When there appears a visible space between the letters "AM" in "AMERICA" on the reverse, it is known as the Wide AM kind, and it is one of the most sought-after 1999 penny errors that ever occurred. Coins with this mistake, which are unique to the Philadelphia Mint, may sell for anywhere from $100 to $600, depending on their grade and condition.

4. 1999 D Penny Close AM (Proof Coins) 

The Close AM mistake, which may be found on some proof pennies that were mostly struck in San Francisco but still occurred in Denver, too, happens when the letters "A" and "M" in "AMERICA" are either touching or extremely close to one another. Depending on grade, these rare and extremely expensive coins may be worth up to $1,500 or more.

5. Double Die Errors

On the coin's obverse and reverse, double die mistakes can appear only when die misalignment causes design components to look duplicated. Despite being rare, these imperfections are overly precious, though the price is not as high as it could be ($50 to over $1,000 per coin). 

6. Other Minting Errors (Miscellaneous) 

Further errors on 1999 pennies include die cracks, clipped planchets, and off-center striking, and depending on their rarity and aesthetic appeal, these erroneous instances cost from $10 to $500 or more.

Related article: 87 Nickels Worth Money by Year.

How to Determine the 1999 Penny Value on the Spot? 

How much is a 1999 penny worth? If you are still wondering how to evaluate your own coin, it is vital to know which steps to take in order not to miss any component that may boost the value of the coin. The first step in determining a 1999 penny's value usually comes down to the examination of its physical characteristics. Look for mistakes like the Wide AM or the Close AM by looking at the mint mark with the use of a loupe or magnifying lens.

But what could enhance this experience even more? Yes, these are apps like Coin ID Scanner that identify coins and analyze images of your coin to find variations and assess its value on the spot. Besides, such resources are usually equipped with vast numismatic encyclopedias that can deliver the most recent pricing information and collectors' insights, too. 

Learn more about expert grading and test market interest if you suspect that your coin can be a valuable asset in the end. Even when on the go, identifying coins and their worth is possible, yet with proper tools and knowledge acquired on time. 

Sources: 

1. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1999-1c-wide-am-rd/83154 

2. https://www.usacoinbook.com/coins/623/small-cents/lincoln-memorial-cent/1999-P/wide-am/