1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny Value Guide What It’s Worth and Why Collectors Care
The 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $25 in circulated condition to over $100 or more in pristine mint state — and certain high-grade examples have sold for several hundred dollars at auction. If you’ve stumbled across one of these coins, you might be holding something genuinely special.
The 1999-S Lincoln cent is a proof coin, which means it was struck at the San Francisco Mint specifically for collector sets. But what makes the Close AM variety so interesting — and so valuable — is a tiny detail on the reverse side of the coin. Most collectors would walk right past it. If you want to identify your coin quickly, try using a free coin identifier app to confirm the variety before diving deeper into the research. It’s a great starting point for everyday collectors who don’t own a loupe yet.
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What Is the Close AM Variety on the 1999-S Penny?
The “AM” in Close AM refers to the letters A and M in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse of the Lincoln cent. On most Lincoln cents from this era, those two letters are separated by a visible space — known as the Wide AM variety. On the Close AM coins, the base of the A and the base of the M nearly touch, leaving almost no gap between them.
The 1999-S Close AM is considered a die variety, meaning the mint accidentally used a business-strike reverse die (normally reserved for coins made for general circulation) to produce proof coins in the collector sets. This kind of production error is exactly what makes variety collectors go wild. It wasn’t supposed to happen, and that’s what gives the coin its premium value.
To see the difference clearly, you’ll need at least 5x magnification. Hold the coin under a bright light and focus on the letters “AM” in AMERICA. If they’re touching or nearly touching, you likely have a Close AM. If there’s a noticeable gap, it’s the Wide AM variety — still a nice proof coin, but without the same collector premium.
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How Much Is the 1999-S Close AM Penny Worth?
The value of a 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny depends primarily on its condition and grade. Since these were struck as proof coins, many were preserved carefully by collectors from the moment they left the mint. However, the variety was originally distributed in proof sets, so buyers didn’t necessarily know what they had.
Here’s a general value guide based on current market data:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR-60 (Circulated/Handled) | $25 – $40 |
| PR-65 (Gem Proof) | $50 – $90 |
| PR-67 (Superb Gem Proof) | $100 – $200 |
| PR-69 Deep Cameo (DCAM) | $300+ |
For the most current auction results and retail price comparisons, you can check detailed 1999 Lincoln Penny price data by grade to see how the market has been trending. Values can shift based on recent sales, so staying current matters.
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How Rare Is the 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Cent?
The exact mintage of the 1999-S Close AM variety is unknown, which is actually part of what makes it so appealing. The San Francisco Mint didn’t advertise the error, and it was only discovered after the proof sets had already been distributed to collectors. Experts believe the number of surviving Close AM examples is relatively small compared to the total number of 1999-S proof cents produced.
For context, the 1999-S proof set had a mintage of over 2.5 million sets — but only a fraction of those contain the Close AM reverse. Because of the limited and uncertain supply, the coin carries a strong premium in the collector market, especially in higher grades.
CoinKnow is a helpful tool for collectors who want to track varieties like this one. The app lets you log your coins, compare grades, and stay updated on current values — all from your phone.
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Tips for Identifying and Selling Your 1999-S Close AM Penny
If you believe you have a 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny, the smartest move is to get it authenticated and graded by a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC. A certified coin in a holder is far easier to sell and typically commands higher prices than a raw (uncertified) example.
Before spending money on grading, do your homework. Read up on the full value breakdown for 1999 pennies and their varieties so you understand exactly what you have. Knowing the difference between Close AM and Wide AM, and understanding how proof grades work, will help you make smart decisions whether you’re selling or holding.
CoinKnow also offers a variety identification feature that’s particularly useful for Lincoln cent collectors who are hunting die varieties across multiple years. It’s worth downloading if you’re starting to get serious about the hobby.
When selling, popular options include eBay, coin shows, and specialized coin dealers. Always compare recent “sold” listings — not just asking prices — to get a realistic sense of what buyers are actually paying right now.
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FAQ
Q: How do I know if my 1999-S penny is the Close AM variety?
A: Look at the letters “AM” in the word AMERICA on the reverse side of the coin. If the bases of the A and M are nearly touching or overlapping, you have the Close AM variety. Use at least 5x magnification and good lighting to see the detail clearly. CoinKnow can also help you compare images of known examples.
Q: Is a 1999-S Close AM penny worth getting graded professionally?
A: Yes, especially if the coin looks sharp and well-preserved. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds credibility and can significantly increase the coin’s resale value. A PR-67 or PR-69 DCAM example in a certified holder can be worth several times more than the same coin sold raw.
Q: Where can I sell my 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny?
A: eBay is the most accessible marketplace, but coin dealers and coin shows are also solid options. For variety coins like this, dedicated numismatic auction houses can sometimes get you the best price, especially for high-grade certified examples.
