Did you know a simple 1992 Lincoln penny could be worth more than $1,500? 😲 The 1992 Close AM penny is one of the most fascinating modern coin varieties hiding in pocket change today.
This guide will show you exactly how to spot one, what it’s worth, and where to sell it.
🔍 What Is the 1992 “Close AM” Penny?
On normal 1992 Lincoln cents, the A and M in “AMERICA” on the reverse are spaced apart.
But on the rare Close AM variety:
✔️ The A and M are nearly touching.
✔️ Only exists for the 1992 Lincoln cent series.
✔️ Found in Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S” proofs).
💎 Value Breakdown (2024 Market Update)
| Grade | Philadelphia (No Mintmark) | Denver (D Mintmark) |
|---|---|---|
| MS-65 | $250 – $400 | $1,200 – $1,800 💎 |
| MS-63 | $150 – $250 | $800 – $1,200 |
| AU-58 | $75 – $150 | $400 – $700 |
📈 Record Sale: A 1992-D Close AM (MS-67 RD) sold for $2,300 in 2023.
👉 Denver Mint coins are the most valuable due to extreme scarcity.
🛠️ 3-Step Verification Guide
1️⃣ Magnification Check 🔬
- Use a 5x–10x loupe.
- Look closely at “AMERICA” → If there’s no gap between A and M, it’s the Close AM variety.
2️⃣ Mintmark Check 🏷️
- No mintmark = Philadelphia (common but still collectible).
- “D” mintmark = Denver (most valuable).
- “S” mintmark = San Francisco Proofs (rare, premium).
3️⃣ Condition Grading ⭐
- Red luster (RD) = highest value.
- Minimal wear = stronger auction prices.
⚡ Why Denver Mint Coins Are Worth More
✔️ Fewer 1992-D Close AM coins were struck.
✔️ Collectors compete fiercely for Denver mint errors.
✔️ High-grade specimens are extremely rare.
🛒 Where to Find & Sell
🔎 Search Tips:
- Check every 1992 penny in your collection.
- Focus on Denver Mint (D) coins first.
💰 Selling Options:
- eBay → Good for raw coins under $300.
- Heritage Auctions → Best for certified, high-value coins.
- Local coin dealers → Quick sale, but lower payout.
⚠️ Important Note:
- Only uncirculated examples bring $1,500+.
- Professional grading (PCGS or NGC) significantly boosts value.
🎁 Free “Close AM” Detection Guide
Want to confirm if you have one? Send us:
📸 Close-up photo of “AMERICA”
🏷️ Mintmark detail
✨ Condition description
🎁 You’ll receive:
- Free “Penny Errors Worth $500+” PDF
- Current buyer price list
💬 “We’re paying top dollar for 1992-D Close AM pennies!” — Jason R., Lincoln Cent Specialist
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