The 1999 Wide AM Penny: How to Spot and Evaluate

The 1999 Wide AM Penny: How to Spot and Evaluate

Coins come in various forms, sizes, denominations, and designs. Sometimes, the same units of currency may bear slightly different patterns and images, with some of them being historically or culturally significant for collectors. The same can be said about the 1999 cent.

Coins come in various forms, sizes, denominations, and designs. Sometimes, the same units of currency may bear slightly different patterns and images, with some of them being historically or culturally significant for collectors. The same can be said about the 1999 cent. 

Most 1999 Lincoln pennies (=cents) are worth just one cent, but what if some instances can be more valuable than you expect? The wide AM 1999 penny is a unique example that deserves careful examination before being added to a collection. What does a 1999 wide AM penny look like? Learn how to identify these coins and what makes them so distinctive. 

A picture of the 1999 Wide AM penny, showcasing the notable separation between the "A" and "M" in "AMERICA" on the reverse side.

The Wide AM vs. Close AM 

The most important aspect when identifying a 1999 penny wide AM is distinguishing it from its far more common Close AM variety. As such, the difference lies in the spacing between the letters "A" and "M" in the inscription "America", located on the reverse side.

Wide AM

  • What makes this iteration unique is a noticeable gap between the letters A and M.

  • The FG initials (the mark of its engraver Frank Gasparro) are located farther away from the Lincoln Memorial.  

  • Although this design was intended for proof coins, a few instances produced by the Philadelphia Mint accidentally entered the market anyway. 

Close AM

  • In this case, there is little to no space between the letters A and M.

  • The initials FG are spotted closer to the Lincoln Memorial.  

  • In 1999, this was the most widely used design, as it was honorably considered the standard for all business strike pennies. 

How to Spot a 1999 Wide AM Penny: The Main Features to Observe

Indeed, at the dawn of the new millennium, there should have been released an exclusive instance (just like the time and circumstances it was surrounded by). Let us consider several notable characteristics necessary to identify this valuable coin.

Basic Specifications of the 1999 Penny


Composition

97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper

Diameter

19 mm

Weight

2.5 grams

Edge

Plain (smooth)

Designer

Victor D. Brenner (obverse), Frank Gasparro (reverse)

Mint Locations

Philadelphia (no mint mark)*, Denver (D mint mark)


*The Wide AM variety only exists in coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint

Obverse Design

The obverse of a 1999 penny features a right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln, originally created by Victor D. Brenner. Prior to the start of the Lincoln Bicentennial series in 2009, this design was a standard and has been in use since the centennial of Lincoln's birth. Apart from the portrait, one may see inscriptions like "LIBERTY" (to the left), "IN GOD WE TRUST" (above Lincoln's head), and the date on issue "1999" (to the right).  

The penny's obverse does not reveal whether it is a Wide AM or Close AM type. This is why we turn to the reverse.

Related article: 25 Most Valuable Pennies List with Photo.

Reverse Design

The reverse side, on its part, demonstrated the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., as well as the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"** (curved at the top), the words "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (atop the memorial), the designer's initials "FG", and its denomination "ONE CENT" at the bottom.

This is where the difference between the Wide AM and Close AM varieties can be found. 

A picture of the Wide AM vs. Close AM pennies, highlighting the distinct spacing between the letters "A" and "M" in "AMERICA" on the reverse side

Mintage and Rarity

According to statistics, only a small number of the Philadelphia Mint production of over 5.2 billion Lincoln cents are Wide AM. Wide AM pennies are rare, especially in high grades; however, it is unclear how many still exist. Anyway, the truth is as follows: it is scarce in circulated grades and even rarer in Mint State (MS) condition.

Assessing the 1999 Wide AM Penny Value

Just like with other numismatic creations, the 1999 wide AM penny worth is based on several factors simultaneously, including condition, market demand, and its official grade for sure. As for the grades, here is a quick reminder of what a coin can be characterized by: 

  • Circulated condition (VF–EF): Shows noticeable wear but retains visible design elements.  

  • Mint State, Select or Choice Uncirculated (MS60–MS64): No wear from circulation, but minor marks or weak strikes.  

  • Gem Uncirculated (MS65–66): High level of aesthetic appeal, sharp details, and strong luster, with few imperfections.  

  • Superb Gem Uncirculated (MS67+): Near-perfect condition, making it extremely valuable. 

Nevertheless, according to the PCGS statistics, the 1999 penny wide AM value may fluctuate significantly. It is a modern rarity that can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars, yet when a coin is appropriately stored and maintained.


Condition/Grade

Approximate Value

Circulated condition (VF–EF)

$150 – $300 

Mint State, Select or Choice Uncirculated (MS60–MS64)

$400 – $1,000

Gem Uncirculated (MS65–66)

$1,500 – $4,500 

Superb Gem Uncirculated (MS67+)

$5,000+ 


If you are still wondering “How much is a 1999 wide AM penny worth?”, try a different approach. Instead of exploring dozens of resources, employ one single tool that incorporates everything you need – Coin ID Scanner

Coin ID Scanner is an innovative tool that opens the door for quick yet precise identification of coins, even those from the error pennies list, and their evaluation by photos only so as to give you insights into what its market potential could be. While it does not replace professional grading services, Coin ID Scanner serves as a valuable first step in coin authentication

How rare is the 1999 wide AM penny? Well, as much as a coin might be. The 1999 Wide AM penny is a small but powerful reminder of what modern numismatics may still create. Explore the world of coins and learn what to grab next. 


Sources: 

  1. https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/cents/lincoln-cents-memorial-reverse-1959-2008/819553/1999-wide-am-1c-ms/ 

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

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