In a surprising turn of events, a rare 1999 Wide AM penny found inside an old lunchbox has fetched a whopping $5,500 at auction, turning an ordinary discovery into a collector’s dream.
This humble-looking Lincoln Memorial cent turned out to be one of the most sought-after modern pennies, thanks to a rare design variation known as the Wide AM reverse.
This remarkable sale is a reminder that valuable coins aren’t always ancient or gold—sometimes, they’re hiding in plain sight, right in your childhood keepsakes.
What Makes the 1999 Wide AM Penny So Valuable?
Most 1999 Lincoln cents feature a “Close AM” design on the reverse, meaning the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are nearly touching.
However, a small number of these coins were struck using a proof die, which features a “Wide AM”—a design element where there’s a clear space between the letters.
This reverse design was only intended for proof coins, but a limited number made it into circulation by mistake, making them rare and valuable.
Key Features of the 1999 Wide AM Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Lincoln Memorial Cent |
| Year | 1999 |
| Mint Mark | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Design Error | Wide gap between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” |
| Estimated Rarity | Less than 1 in 1,000 1999 cents |
| Recent Auction Price | $5,500 |
| Additional Marker | G in “GOD” has a blunt serif (indicative of proof reverse) |
How the Coin Was Found
The coin’s owner, who wished to remain anonymous, found the penny while cleaning out a box of childhood memorabilia.
Inside an old lunchbox filled with trinkets and coins from the late ’90s was the 1999 penny, later confirmed by a numismatist as a genuine Wide AM error.
After professional grading and authentication, the coin was listed in a prominent U.S. coin auction, where it garnered significant attention from collectors, eventually selling for $5,500.
Why the Wide AM Design Matters
The U.S. Mint accidentally used the reverse die meant for proof coins (which are not supposed to enter circulation) when producing a limited batch of 1999 pennies. Only a few made it out to the public, and they are extremely rare when found in mint condition or uncirculated rolls.
Collectors prize this coin because:
- It’s a known minting error
- It’s part of a popular Lincoln Cent series
- It’s affordable yet has potential to grow in value
Other Years to Watch For Wide AM Pennies
The 1999 isn’t the only year with this valuable design error. You might also find Wide AM varieties in:
- 1998 Lincoln Cent
- 2000 Lincoln Cent
If you own pennies from these years, it’s worth checking the spacing between the A and M in “AMERICA” using a magnifying glass or loupe.
The $5,500 sale of a 1999 Wide AM penny is proof that treasures may be hiding in unexpected places—even in an old lunchbox.
This rare Lincoln cent stands as a reminder that understanding small design variations can lead to big payoffs for collectors and curious coin hunters alike. So before tossing your spare change, take a closer look—you might be holding a small fortune in your palm.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1999 penny is a Wide AM variety?
Check the back of the coin—if there’s a visible gap between the A and M in “AMERICA,” you may have a Wide AM.
How much is a 1999 Wide AM penny worth?
Depending on its condition, the coin can sell for $500 to over $5,000 at auction.
Can I find a Wide AM penny in my pocket change?
Yes, though rare, some 1999 Wide AM pennies are still in circulation or tucked away in old coin jars and collections.