1998 Wide AM Penny Worth
Did you know a simple penny from 1998 could be worth $20, $50, or even $150+? 😲
The 1998 Wide AM penny is a rare mint variety that still shows up in everyday pocket change—and many people spend it without noticing!
In this easy guide, you’ll learn how to spot this rare coin and how much it can sell for.
🔍 Step 1: What Is the 1998 Wide AM Penny?
In 1998, the U.S. Mint accidentally used a proof reverse die on some regular circulation pennies.
This mistake caused the letters A and M in “AMERICA” to be spaced farther apart than normal, creating a rare and valuable variety.
Collectors call this coin the 1998 Wide AM Lincoln cent.
👀 Step 2: How to Identify the Wide AM Error (Super Easy)
Flip the penny over and look closely at the word AMERICA on the back.
✅ Normal 1998 Penny (Close AM)
- The A and M are touching or nearly touching
✅ Rare Error Penny (Wide AM)
- The A and M have a noticeable gap between them
👉 Use a magnifying glass 🔎 to see the spacing clearly.
💰 Step 3: 1998 Wide AM Penny Value Guide
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (normal wear) | $20 – $30 |
| High-grade (PCGS / NGC certified) | $100 – $150+ |
| Top-quality with strong eye appeal | Even higher! |
💡 Some collectors have found one in pocket change and sold it instantly for $20 or more!
🏦 Step 4: How to Get Your Coin Graded for Maximum Value
If you believe you found a Wide AM penny:
1️⃣ Visit a grading service like PCGS or NGC
2️⃣ Submit your coin using their online form
3️⃣ Ship it in a secure coin holder
4️⃣ Receive your authenticated and graded coin
👉 Certified coins often sell for much higher prices because buyers trust professional grading.
🔐 Step 5: Pro Tips for Coin Hunters
✔ Always check every 1998 penny
✔ Use bright light and a magnifier
✔ Never clean the coin (it destroys value)
✔ Store coins in flips, holders, or capsules
✔ Compare your coin to a normal “Close AM” penny
💡 Why the 1998 Wide AM Penny Matters
The 1998 Wide AM penny is one of the easiest valuable error coins for beginners to find.
It looks like an ordinary cent—but can be worth 20×, 50×, or even 150× its face value.
👉 Start checking your change today—you might discover a hidden collector’s treasure! 🪙✨
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