We specialize in authenticating the rarest Lincoln cent varieties, and the 1992 Close AM penny is one of the most coveted transitional errors in U.S. coinage. Here’s why this tiny design difference commands massive premiums.
🔍 Key Identification Features
➡️ Reverse Design Error:
- The “AM” in “AMERICA” is touching or nearly touching (normally spaced apart in 1992)
- This reverse was intended only for proof coins but was mistakenly used on a small batch of business strikes
➡️ Obverse Characteristics:
- Standard 1992 obverse with no mintmark (Philadelphia)
- Also exists for 1992-D (Denver Mint) — rarer and more valuable
🧬 Error Specifications
✅ Transitional Design Error
✅ Reverse die from proof design used on circulation coins
✅ One of the rarest Lincoln Memorial cent varieties
✅ Confirmed as FS-901 in Cherrypickers’ Guide
💰 Valuation Breakdown (2024 Market)
| Grade | PCGS Certified Value | Auction Record |
|---|---|---|
| MS-63 RD | $8,000–$12,000 | $13,200 |
| MS-65 RD | $15,000–$20,000 💎 | $25,850 🏆 |
| MS-67 RD | Extremely Rare | Not Publicly Sold |
Historic Sale: A 1992-D Close AM penny graded MS-67 RD sold for $25,850 via Heritage Auctions.
🔐 5-Step Authentication Protocol
1️⃣ Macro Imaging of “AM” Gap
- Close examination to detect narrowed spacing
- “AM” in near contact, unlike the Wide AM normally used
2️⃣ Mintmark Placement Analysis
- 1992 or 1992-D clearly visible
- No doubling or damage—die variety, not wear
3️⃣ Reverse Font & Designer Initials
- Position of FG (Frank Gasparro) initials confirms reverse die used
4️⃣ Grade Assessment
- Red designation preferred (RD > RB > BN)
- Mint state coins command premiums
5️⃣ Third-Party Verification
- Submission to PCGS or NGC
- FS-901 certification label confirmed
🎯 Why This Penny Hits 5 Figures
✔️ Less than 20 known 1992-D Close AMs
✔️ Proof reverse mistakenly used on circulation coin
✔️ Nearly impossible to spot without magnification
✔️ Popular with Lincoln cent specialists and registry set builders
💼 Selling Strategy for High-End Examples
🪙 Auction Options:
- Heritage Auctions – U.S. Coin Signature Series
- GreatCollections
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions (Premier Events)
🤝 Private Treaty Sales:
- Direct sales to elite cent collectors
- Inclusion in “Transitional Error Showcase” registry sets
🚨 Submit for $10K+ Authentication
Redesignation Available for Top Examples
- High-resolution imaging
- Certified weight and diameter
- Video proof of spacing anomaly
🎁 With Your Submission:
- “Close AM Rarity” collector brief
- Recent price trends and bid history
- Auction & dealer placement roadmap
💬 “Even veteran collectors miss this error—it’s hiding in plain sight.”
— PennyVerse Transitional Error Division
🔐 [PennyVerse Red Label Certification]
📅 Valuation Valid Until: September 30, 2025
⏳ Time-Sensitive: Next evaluation window closes in 4 days
Reply “1992CAM” for priority access
🌐 Learn more: pennyverse.info/
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