1992 Close AM Penny

🔎 Quick Summary

The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny is one of the most valuable modern varieties. Both 1992 (no mint mark) and 1992-D versions exist — and collectors will pay hundreds to over $1,000 for confirmed examples.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Identify a 1992 Close AM Penny

1) Flip the Coin to the Reverse (Back) 🪞

You will be checking the word AMERICA.

2) Look at the Letters “A” and “M” 🔬

Use good lighting or a 10× loupe.

• Close AM (RARE):
  The A and M are touching or nearly touching.
• Wide AM (COMMON):
  The A and M have a clear gap between them.

✅ Close AM = Valuable
❌ Wide AM = Normal penny

💵 1992 Close AM Penny Value (Updated)

1992 (No Mint Mark – Philadelphia)

• Ungraded: $200 – $300
• High-grade certified: More depending on condition

1992-D (Denver Mint)

• Ungraded: $500 – $600
• Certified High Grade:
  A top-quality graded example sold for over $1,000

💎 Why so valuable?
Very small number of 1992 pennies were accidentally struck with the reverse design meant for proof coins.

🧪 Why the Close AM Is Rare

The 1992 Close AM design was not intended for circulating pennies.
A few reverse dies from the proof-production system were mistakenly used for business-strike coins — resulting in this scarce variety.

📌 Should You Get It Certified?

Yes. Certification dramatically improves value and makes sales easier.

Submit to:

✅ PCGS
✅ NGC

Benefits:

• Professional confirmation of the variety
• Higher selling price
• Trust from collectors and buyers
• Protection inside a sealed holder

🪙 Collector Tips Before Sending for Grading

• Use a 10× magnifier to confirm AM spacing
• Check for damage or scratches
• Take clear front/back photos
• Do not clean the coin (this lowers value)