In 1999, over 6.3 billion Lincoln Memorial pennies were minted, yet a few contain a stealth design variation that isn’t obvious at first glance.
Dubbed the “Wide AM” error, the spacing between the letters A‑M in “AMERICA” on the reverse is noticeably wider—ideal traits, mistakenly used only for proof coins, were included in circulation strikes.
Collectors are hunting for these rare anomalies, some fetching hundreds to thousands of dollars at auction.
What Is the “Wide AM” Error?
- Intended for proof coins only, the Wide AM font spacing was never meant for business-strike designs.
- On error examples, the gap between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” is significantly larger—easily spotted under magnification.
- Auction results:
- General error sells for $173–$2,300 depending on grade.
- One Philadelphia specimen (standard Close AM) sold for $8,500.
Why This Error Matters
- Mistake from mint-proof mixing: Proof die setting used wrongly on business pennies.
- High demand: The novelty and rarity drive strong collector interest.
- Low survival: Few Wide AM pennies entered circulation before detection.
- Value potential: Mid-grade errors fetch hundreds; top-grade can exceed thousands.
Other Notable 1999 Penny Errors
| Error Type | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wide AM Error | Enlarged A‑M spacing; proof-style font | $173–$8,500+ |
| Double Dime Mule | Penny struck with dime reverse (Roosevelt reverse) | $96,000–$138,000+ |
| Double Die / DDO or DDR | Duplicated letters or design elements | $50–$500+ |
| Off‑Center / Double‑Strike | Off-center strike or multiple hits | $275+ for high grade |
| Broad‑Struck Penny | Missing collar causes spread metal edges | $85–$100+ |
Auction Highlights & Real Sales
- Wide AM penny: Recently listed online for between $173–$2,300, depending on condition.
- Philadelphia “Close AM” note sold for $8,500—even rare standard fonts have collector appeal.
- Stunning mule error: 1999 penny with Roosevelt dime reverse sold for $138,000 in 2006; updated inflation-adjusted value is about $218,500.
Why Some Penny Errors Are Worth a Fortune
- Mules (wrong reverse), like the dime reverse error, are extremely rare—only 20 known counterparts.
- Wide AM appears more often but remains elusive and prized for its subtly.
- Doubled dies, off-center strikes, and broad-strikes also attract attention from error-coin collectors.
How to Spot the Wide AM Penny
- Flip any 1999 penny and examine “AMERICA” under a magnifier.
- Compare with a known standard: standard should have tight A‑M spacing.
- For advanced errors, also check for:
- Reverse dime design (mule)
- Doubling/die break features
- Off-center strike or broadening
- Use online photo comparisons for accuracy.
- Submit quality candidates for grading (e.g., by PCGS or NGC Currency) to confirm authenticity and grade.
Market Value
| Error Type | Grade/Condition | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 Wide AM | Circulated | $173–$2,300 |
| High-Grade Unc | $500–$8,500 | |
| 1999-M Mule (penny/dime) | MS66 | $96,000–$138,000+ |
| Double Die (DDO/DDR) | AU–UNC | $50–$500+ |
| Off-Center / Double Strike | High-grade Unc | $275–$500 |
| Broad-Struck Penny | AU–UNC | $85–$100+ |
Why the Wide AM Remains Underrated
Despite huge mule premiums, Wide AM coins offer a more accessible entry into error coin collecting—with solid returns even in mid-condition. Most look like normal pennies, but a few inches under magnification reveals immense potential value.
Tips for Lucky Penny Hunters
- Check all 1999 pennies in your pocket or change jar.
- Use strong lighting and magnification on coins.
- Compare with images online (forums, error coin galleries).
- Set aside candidates and avoid cleaning or damaging them.
- Get coins graded and certified—this preserves value and simplifies sales.
What looks like everyday copper change can hide astonishing treasure. The 1999 Lincoln penny’s Wide AM error, while subtle, can be worth up to $8,500, and mule variants fetch six-figure prices.
By inspecting pennies closely and comparing details, you could uncover a hidden fortune. Whether Wide AM or a mule error, these coins remind us that sometimes riches are right in our pockets.
FAQs
Q1: How common is the 1999 Wide AM error?
Not extremely rare—more frequent than mule errors—but still hard to find, and most are valued in the hundreds to low thousands.
Q2: Should I get my Wide AM penny graded?
Yes. Authentication and condition certification (e.g., PCGS, NGC) significantly increase its authenticity and resale value.
Q3: Could there be more mule errors hiding today?
Possibly. With only ~20 known penny/dime mules, unearthing one in circulation remains unlikely—but not impossible. Early action and careful inspection matter.