This tiny design error could turn your pocket change into a $25,000 payday. The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent is one of the rarest transitional errors in modern U.S. coinage—and it’s still hiding in circulation.
We specialize in authenticating high-value Lincoln cent varieties, and the 1992 Close AM is among the most coveted. Here’s what makes it so valuable—and how to identify one.
🔍 What Is the 1992 Close AM Error?
➡️ Reverse Design Anomaly:
- The “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are touching or nearly touching
- Normal 1992 pennies have a wide space between the letters
- This proof-only reverse design was mistakenly used on regular circulation coins
➡️ Obverse Side:
- Standard 1992 Lincoln design
- Found with both no mintmark (Philadelphia) and “D” mintmark (Denver)
- 1992-D version is far rarer and significantly more valuable
🧬 Error Type Breakdown
- ✅ Transitional design error
- ✅ Proof reverse die used on business strikes
- ✅ Confirmed variety in the Cherrypickers’ Guide (FS-901)
- ✅ One of the rarest Lincoln Memorial cent reverses ever made
💰 2024 Value & Auction Prices
| Grade | PCGS Market 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 yet publicly sold |
💎 Historic Highlight: A 1992-D Close AM in MS-67 RD sold for $25,850 at Heritage Auctions.
🔐 5-Step Expert Authentication Process
1️⃣ Macro Zoom of “AM” Spacing
- Confirm tight letter spacing — “A” and “M” nearly touch
2️⃣ Mintmark Verification
- Clear 1992 or 1992-D date
- No damage or mechanical doubling — must be die variety
3️⃣ Reverse Diagnostics
- Position of FG initials (Frank Gasparro) confirms reverse die match
4️⃣ Color & Grade Matters
- Red coins (RD) bring top value
- MS (Mint State) grades = collector gold
5️⃣ Third-Party Grading
- Must be certified by PCGS or NGC
- Look for FS-901 designation on label
🎯 Why It’s Worth $25,000+
✔️ Fewer than 20 confirmed 1992-D Close AMs exist
✔️ Rare proof die used on business strikes
✔️ Requires high magnification to identify
✔️ Highly sought after by Lincoln cent collectors and registry set builders
💼 How to Sell One (If You’re Lucky Enough)
🪙 Best Auction Houses:
- Heritage Auctions (U.S. Signature Sales)
- GreatCollections
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
🤝 Private Sales:
- Deal directly with high-end Lincoln cent collectors
- Feature it in “Transitional Error Showcase” registry sets
🚨 High-End Submissions (for $10K+ Coins)
💼 Includes:
- Ultra-HD coin imaging
- Certified weight & diameter
- Professional video proof of “AM” spacing
- Market brief + valuation trends
- Dealer & auction placement roadmap
📅 Certified Value Valid Through: Sept 30, 2025
⏳ Next Evaluation Window Closes in 4 Days
📨 Reply “1992CAM” to Request Priority Submission Access
💬 “Even expert collectors miss this—it’s one of the best-kept secrets in modern numismatics.”
— PennyVerse Transitional Error Division
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