🔍 What Makes This Penny Special?
✅ The Error:
- In 1999, the U.S. Mint accidentally used a 1998 proof die for a small batch of pennies.
- On these coins, the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” nearly touch (unlike normal 1999 pennies, where they’re spaced apart).
✅ Extreme Rarity:
- Only 5 confirmed specimens exist (all in private collections or museums).
- None have been found in circulation—only in proof sets.
✅ Why It’s Valuable:
- A minting mistake that was never supposed to happen.
- Ultra-high demand from elite collectors and museums.
💰 Real Market Value (2024)
| Grade | Estimated Value | Record Sale |
|---|---|---|
| PR-69 | $250,000–$500,000 | $504,000 (2018) |
| PR-70 | $800,000–$1.2M | $1.2M (2023, private sale) |
Key Fact: The $1.2M sale was a private transaction—not a public auction. Public auction records show a max of $504K (Heritage, 2018).
🔬 How to Spot a Genuine 1999-S “Close AM” Proof
1️⃣ Check the Mintmark: Must be “S” (San Francisco proof).
2️⃣ Examine “AM” Spacing: Letters almost touch (use 30x magnification).
3️⃣ Verify Proof Quality: Mirror-like fields, no wear.
4️⃣ Weigh & Measure: Must be 3.11g (no alterations).
🚨 Beware of Fakes & Scams
❌ Altered Coins: Some fakes modify a normal 1999-S proof.
❌ eBay Scams: Listings claiming to sell this coin for cheap are 100% fake.
❌ “Too Good to Be True” Offers: Only PCGS/NGC-certified examples have sold for six figures.
🏆 Where to Sell (If You Find One!)
- Heritage Auctions (Record prices for rare coins)
- Stack’s Bowers (Elite collectors & museums)
- Private Treaty Sale (For maximum discretion)
Think You Found One?
📸 Email photos to experts@pennyverse.info for a free assessment!
Free Download:
📥 “Ultra-Rare Penny Checklist” (Includes authentication tips)
“This coin is a modern numismatic legend—but verify before you sell!”
— The PennyVerse Research Team
Leave a Reply