1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny Value Guide What This Rare Proof Coin Is Really Worth
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The 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $5 in lightly circulated condition to over $100 or more in pristine proof grades — and if you happen to have one in exceptional shape, it could be worth significantly more than you’d expect from a simple one-cent coin.
What Makes the 1999-S Close AM So Special
Not all 1999 pennies are created equal. The “Close AM” variety refers to the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side of the coin. On Close AM coins, those two letters nearly touch each other. On the more common Wide AM version, there’s a noticeable gap between them.
The 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny is a proof coin, meaning it was specially struck at the San Francisco Mint for collectors — not for everyday circulation. What makes this particular variety so interesting is that it was struck using the wrong dies. The Close AM design was actually intended for business strike (circulation) coins, but somehow ended up being used on a small number of proof sets.
That minting error — or more precisely, die mismatch — is exactly what makes this coin a genuine rarity. Collectors love this kind of “wrong die” variety, and the numismatic community has documented it thoroughly.
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If you’re trying to figure out whether you have one of these, a good coin identifier and value app can help you examine key details on your penny quickly and accurately right from your phone.
How to Identify the 1999-S Close AM Penny
Finding one of these coins starts with knowing exactly what to look for. Here’s a simple checklist:
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– Mint Mark: Look for a small “S” below the date. This confirms it was made at the San Francisco Mint.
– AM Spacing: Using a magnifying glass, examine the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse. If they’re nearly touching or touching, you likely have a Close AM variety.
– Proof Finish: Proof coins typically have a mirror-like, highly reflective surface with frosted design elements. If your coin looks dull or worn, it may be a different variety or grade.
Many people overlook this step or confuse the Close AM with its Wide AM counterpart. Take your time and compare carefully.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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CoinKnow is a fantastic tool for exactly this kind of identification. The app walks you through variety detection step by step, so even beginners can spot key differences without needing to visit a coin dealer first.
1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny Value by Grade
The value of this coin depends heavily on its grade and eye appeal. Proof coins are graded on a scale from PR60 to PR70, with PR70 representing absolute perfection.
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR60 | Proof, heavily marked | $5 – $15 |
| PR63 | Proof, select | $15 – $35 |
| PR65 | Gem Proof | $35 – $75 |
| PR67 | Superb Gem Proof | $75 – $150 |
| PR69 / PR70 | Near Perfect / Perfect | $150 – $300+ |
For the most up-to-date 1999 Lincoln Penny price data across grades and conditions, it’s always worth checking a reliable pricing database before buying or selling.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Should You Get It Certified?
If you believe you have a 1999-S Close AM penny, seriously consider getting it professionally graded by PCGS or NGC. Certification confirms authenticity, locks in the grade, and dramatically increases resale value.
Ungraded Close AM pennies can be hard to sell at full value because buyers are cautious about fakes or misidentified coins. A certified example in a slab gives buyers confidence — and puts more money in your pocket.
For a full breakdown of what your 1999 penny is worth based on its specific variety and condition, it helps to cross-reference multiple sources before making any decisions.
CoinKnow also provides real-time market comparisons so you can see what similar coins have sold for recently at auction — a huge advantage when you’re deciding whether to hold or sell.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Where to Buy or Sell the 1999-S Close AM Penny
The best places to buy or sell this variety include:
– eBay — Large marketplace, lots of recent sales data
– Heritage Auctions — Ideal for high-grade certified coins
– PCGS CoinFacts / NGC Registry — Excellent for population reports and price guides
– Local coin shows — Good for quick sales or in-person offers
Always compare recent “sold” prices, not just listed prices. And if you’re not sure what you have, use CoinKnow to verify your coin’s variety before listing it anywhere.
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Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my 1999-S penny is the Close AM or Wide AM variety?
A: Use a magnifying glass and look at the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the back of the coin. If the letters are nearly touching, it’s a Close AM. If there’s a clear gap, it’s the Wide AM variety, which is far more common and less valuable.
Q: Is the 1999-S Close AM Lincoln Penny rare?
A: Yes, it’s considered a significant variety among Lincoln cent collectors. It was produced in small numbers due to a die mismatch at the San Francisco Mint, and finding one in high proof grades makes it even rarer.
Q: Where is the best place to sell a 1999-S Close AM penny?
A: For the best return, consider getting it certified by PCGS or NGC first, then selling through Heritage Auctions or a reputable eBay seller account. High-grade certified examples attract serious collector bids and typically sell for the strongest prices.
