A small coin in your pocket could be worth a fortune. The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny is a rare find that has collectors buzzing. This penny looks like any other at first glance, but a tiny detail in its design makes it special. Experts say it could fetch over $240,000 at auction. Here’s why this coin is creating such excitement and how you can spot one.
What Makes It Special?
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny stands out because of a mistake made at the U.S. Mint. On most 1992 pennies, the letters “AM” in “AMERICA” on the back are spaced far apart, called the Wide AM variety. But a small number of pennies were accidentally struck with the “AM” letters close together, creating the Close AM variety. This error happened during a transition in how pennies were made, making these coins rare. Only a handful are known to exist, and collectors are eager to get their hands on one.
How to Spot the Coin
Identifying a Close AM penny is simple if you know what to look for. Grab a magnifying glass and check the back of any 1992 or 1992-D Lincoln Penny. Look at the word “AMERICA.” In the Close AM variety, the “A” and “M” are almost touching, with little to no space between them. In the Wide AM, there’s a clear gap. Also, check if the coin is from the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark) or Denver Mint (a small “D” under the date). Both versions are valuable, but the 1992 Close AM from Philadelphia is especially rare.
| Feature | Close AM Penny | Wide AM Penny |
|---|---|---|
| AM Spacing | Almost touching | Clear gap |
| Mint Mark | None or “D” | None or “D” |
| Rarity | Extremely rare | Common |
Why It’s Worth So Much
The value of the 1992 Close AM penny comes from its scarcity and the growing demand for error coins. In 2012, one of these pennies sold for $24,056 at auction. By 2025, experts estimate a high-grade Close AM penny could sell for over $240,000, especially if it’s in mint condition. The coin’s value depends on its condition, with uncirculated coins fetching the highest prices. Even a worn Close AM penny could still be worth thousands.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Uncirculated | $50,000 – $240,000+ |
Where to Look for It
You don’t need to be a collector to find this penny. Check your spare change, old coin jars, or inherited collections. Places like coin rolls from banks, flea markets, or even your couch cushions could hide one. If you think you’ve found a Close AM penny, have it checked by a professional coin grader. Services like PCGS or NGC can verify its authenticity and grade its condition, which affects its value.
A Treasure Hunt for Everyone
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny is a reminder that treasure can be hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or just someone with a jar of loose change, this penny is worth looking for. Its small size hides a big payout, and finding one could change your life. So, grab a magnifying glass, check your pockets, and join the hunt for this rare coin. You never know, you might just find a $240,000 penny.