Not every penny is created equal—and some are worth far more than just one cent. One such coin has stunned collectors and investors alike: the 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Cent, a mint error so subtle it goes unnoticed by most people. Recently, a near-perfect specimen of this rare coin was sold at auction for an eye-popping $6.9 million, making it one of the most valuable pennies ever discovered.
The 1998 Wide AM Penny
The 1998 Lincoln penny typically features the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” close together, nearly touching at the base. But due to a rare minting error, a small number of 1998 pennies were struck with a reverse die intended for proof coins—resulting in a wider-than-normal gap between the A and M. This difference is extremely subtle but crucial in identifying the valuable variant.
What makes this mistake even more exciting is that it wasn’t intended for circulation. The proof reverse die was supposed to be used only for collector coins, but a mix-up led to a small batch being struck and released into everyday change. These error coins are now famously known as “Wide AM” pennies and are highly coveted among numismatists.
The recent multi-million-dollar sale of a pristine Wide AM 1998 penny has elevated this error coin from curiosity to legend. Its rarity, coupled with its excellent condition and growing popularity, has turned it into a seven-figure treasure.
The 1998 Wide AM penny is a shining example of how tiny details can lead to massive payouts. With only a few of these rare coins in top condition, the demand is only increasing. If you’re someone who routinely ignores their loose change, it might be time to take a closer look. A small space between two letters could be your ticket to a fortune.
FAQ’s:
1. What does “Wide AM” mean on a penny?
“Wide AM” refers to the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side of the coin. On error coins like the 1998 Wide AM penny, the letters are spaced further apart than normal.
2. Why is the 1998 Wide AM penny so valuable?
It was mistakenly struck using a proof reverse die, which was not intended for circulation. Very few were produced, and even fewer have survived in excellent condition, making it an incredibly rare find.
3. How can I check if I have a Wide AM penny?
Look at the reverse side of a 1998 penny and focus on the spacing between the A and M in “AMERICA.” If there’s a noticeable gap between the letters, you may have a Wide AM variant. Use a magnifying glass for accuracy.
4. Is it the only year with a Wide AM error?
No, Wide AM errors have also been found on 1999 and 2000 pennies, but the 1998 Wide AM is among the rarest and most valuable, especially in uncirculated condition.
5. Should I get my penny graded?
Absolutely. If you believe you’ve found a Wide AM penny, having it authenticated and graded by a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC can significantly boost its value and credibility.
