Imagine pulling a penny from your pocket change and realizing it doesn’t look quite right. That’s exactly what happened to a few lucky collectors who stumbled upon a surprising mint error involving a 1998 Lincoln cent. This wasn’t just any flaw — it featured a reverse design mix-up, a striking error that shouldn’t have made it past the U.S. Mint’s strict quality control. What was intended to be a regular coin turned into a rare collectible, now commanding attention — and serious money — in the numismatic world.
Coin Name: 1998 Lincoln Cent With Reverse Design Anomaly (Wide AM Variety)
The standout coin is known as the 1998 “Wide AM” penny, and it features a reverse design normally reserved for proof coins, not circulation strikes. Here’s the story: From 1993 to 2008, the U.S. Mint produced pennies with two distinct reverse designs — one for business strike coins (the kind found in circulation) and another for proof coins (high-quality coins made for collectors). On proof coins, the “A” and “M” in ‘AMERICA’ are spaced farther apart, creating what collectors refer to as the “Wide AM” variety. On circulation coins, those same letters are very close together — the “Close AM” style. However, in 1998, a small number of regular circulation pennies were mistakenly struck using the proof reverse die, resulting in the unexpected and valuable Wide AM error.
Why It’s a Big Deal:
- Rare Mint Error – Only a small number of these 1998 Wide AM pennies exist.
- Proof Die on Circulation Coin – It’s a mix-up that collectors live for.
- Visually Distinct – Once you know what to look for, the Wide AM is easy to identify.
- Found in Pocket Change – You don’t need to buy rolls or attend auctions — it could be in your change!
- Strong Collector Demand – High-grade examples have sold for $500+ at auction.
The 1998 Wide AM penny is a perfect example of how a tiny design detail can transform an ordinary coin into a highly sought-after collectible. These error coins are still being discovered today, and they offer an exciting opportunity for anyone with an eye for detail and a bit of patience. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just someone who checks their change for fun, the 1998 penny proves that numismatic treasures can still be hiding in plain sight.
FAQ’s:
1. What is a “Wide AM” penny?
A Wide AM penny has more space between the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side. This spacing is typical of proof coins but was mistakenly used on some 1998 circulation pennies.
2. How can I tell if I have a 1998 Wide AM penny?
Look closely at the reverse side. If the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” do not touch or nearly touch, you might have a Wide AM. Also, the designer’s initials “FG” (for Frank Gasparro) should be further from the Lincoln Memorial base — another sign it’s a proof reverse.
3. How rare is the 1998 Wide AM error?
Estimates vary, but it’s believed that only a few thousand were made. Most went unnoticed in circulation, making them relatively rare and desirable today.
4. How much is a 1998 Wide AM penny worth?
In circulated condition, it may bring $20–$50. In uncirculated (mint state) condition, values can range from $100 to over $500, depending on grade and eye appeal.
