How to Identify This Valuable Modern Error Coin
At PennyVerse.info, we’ve created the ultimate guide to spotting the rare 1999-S “Close AM” proof penny – a modern error that can be worth up to $1,200 to collectors. Here’s how to determine if your proof set contains this valuable variety.
Key Identification Features
The “Close AM” Variety
- Letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” nearly touch
- Standard “Wide AM” has clear spacing
- Only exists on 1999-S proof pennies
- Estimated mintage: 5,000-10,000 coins
Reverse Examination Points
- “STATESOF” merged lettering (instead of “STATES OF”)
- “E·PLURIBUS” with middle dot (not spaced)
- “VECENT” anomaly (partial “ONE CENT”)
- Position of memorial building columns
Step-by-Step Authentication Guide
1. Magnification Required
- Use 10x loupe minimum
- Check “AM” spacing carefully
- Compare to known examples
2. Weight & Composition
- Should weigh 2.5g (standard zinc)
- Diameter: 19mm
- Edge: Plain (no reeding)
3. Proof Characteristics
- Mirror-like fields
- Frosted devices
- Cameo contrast
- No bag marks
Grading & Value Chart
| Grade | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | Light hairlines | $300-$500 |
| PR-67 | Minimal marks | $500-$800 |
| PR-69 | Near perfect | $800-$1,200 |
| PR-70 | Flawless | $1,200+ |
Where to Find These Rare Pennies
- Original 1999-S Proof Sets (Especially early strikes)
- Coin Dealer Inventory (Ask for “1999-S varieties”)
- Online Auctions (Search “1999-S Close AM”)
- Collector Swaps (Coin forum exchanges)
Market Trends (2024 Update)
- “Close AM” varieties up 25% since 2020
- Modern errors gaining collector interest
- Proof set breakouts becoming more popular
- Registry set demand increasing values
Join Our Modern Error Coin Community
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- Free weekly variety alerts
- Live video grading sessions
- Access to our error coin database
- Members-only buying opportunities
Found a potential “Close AM” penny? Our experts provide free evaluations – submit your photos today!
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WEBP 76.35KB
1935 Lincoln Wheat Penny: The Ultimate Value Guide
Discover What Makes Your 1935 Penny Valuable
At PennyVerse.info, we’ve analyzed thousands of 1935 wheat pennies to help you identify the rare varieties that can turn this common date into a $100+ treasure. Here’s everything you need to know to evaluate your coin.
Key Factors Affecting Value
1. Mintmark Varieties
| Mint | Mintage | Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (no mintmark) | 245,388,000 | $0.15-$1 | $5-$25 |
| Denver (D) | 47,000,000 | $0.25-$3 | $10-$50 |
| San Francisco (S) | 38,702,000 | $0.50-$5 | $15-$100 |
2. Error Varieties to Look For
- Double Die Obverse (Value: $50-$500)
- Repunched Mintmark (Value: +30-50% premium)
- Off-Center Strike (Value: $20-$200)
- Die Cracks/Cuds (Value: $5-$50)
Identifying the “WE TROO LEERTY” Error
The coin in the image shows:
- “WE TROO” instead of “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- “LEERTY” instead of “LIBERTY”
- Likely a filled die error or multiple strike
If Authentic, This Error Could Be Worth:
- Circulated: $100-$300
- Uncirculated: $500-$1,000+
- Certified Example: $1,500+ (if unique)
Grading & Condition Guide
| Grade | Philadelphia | Denver | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $0.15 | $0.25 | $0.50 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $0.50 | $1 | $2 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $1 | $2 | $5 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $5 | $10 | $15 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $25 | $50 | $100 |
Where to Find Valuable 1935 Pennies
- Old Coin Rolls (Search original wheat cent rolls)
- Inherited Collections (Check family holdings)
- Estate Sales (Look for “junk coin” boxes)
- Coin Dealers’ Inventory (Ask for 1930s wheat cents)
Professional Authentication Tips
- Weight Check: Should be 3.11g (±0.13g)
- Magnification: 10x loupe for errors
- Compare: Use PCGS CoinFacts images
- Grading: Consider PCGS/NGC for high-grade coins
Selling Your 1935 Wheat Penny
Best Options by Value:
- <$10: Local coin shops or eBay
- $10-$100: Coin forums or Facebook groups
- $100+: Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections
- Major Errors: Error coin specialists
Join Our Wheat Penny Collector Community
🔍 At PennyVerse.info you’ll get:
- Free weekly rarity alerts
- Live Q&A with grading experts
- Access to our wheat cent database
- Members-only buying opportunities
Found an interesting 1935 penny? Our experts provide free evaluations – submit your photos today!
Would you like our free “1930s Wheat Penny Checklist”? Subscribe to our newsletter for instant access!
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