1999 Penny Coin Value (Errors List, “D”, “S” & No Mint Mark Worth)

Are you fascinated by Lincoln pennies and curious about which ones hold hidden value in your collection? The 1999 Lincoln Memorial cent might look like ordinary pocket change, but certain varieties of this coin have become collector’s gold mines, some rare error coins fetching thousands of dollars at auction.

While most 1999 pennies show modest values, ranging from $0.23 to $13.73 for regular examples depending on condition and mint mark, the true excitement lies in the remarkable varieties that can be worth dramatically more. The San Francisco “Close AM” proof variety commands $76.00 in perfect condition, representing just one example of how small design differences can create higher value.

In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to identify valuable 1999 pennies, discover which specific errors and varieties command premium prices, and master the differences between circulated and uncirculated values that could transform a simple cent into a small fortune.

1999 Penny Value By Variety

The worth of a 1999 penny varies significantly depending on its mintmark and grade, with pristine specimens from certain mints fetching considerably higher premiums, as the table demonstrates. If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Modern Pennies Worth Money (1959 – Present)

Top 10 Most Valuable 1999 Penny Worth Money

The hierarchy of valuable 1999 pennies reveals a striking pattern where variety errors dominate over traditional condition rarity, helping reshape modern collecting priorities.

Leading the chart at $4,583, the Wide AM FS-901 MS68 represents the pinnacle of both variety and preservation. The dramatic value gap between this top specimen and the non-FS901 MS67 at $2,300 demonstrates how professional attribution amplifies worth.

Particularly noteworthy is how grades matter exponentially for varieties—the Wide AM drops from $2,300 at MS67 to just $633 at MS66, showing how condition compounds rarity. The sole regular strike making the list, a 1999-D RD MS69 at $408, proves that even standard issues can achieve good value at near-perfect preservation.

This value structure reflects modern numismatics’ evolution: collectors now prize minting anomalies over simple age or low mintages, transforming error hunting into the driving force of contemporary collecting.

Also Read: Lincoln Wheat Penny Value (1909-1958)

History of the 1999 Penny

1999 Lincoln penny stood as a testament to 90 years of continuous production since the series began in 1909. The Philadelphia and Denver mints struck over 11 billion pennies that year—Philadelphia producing 5,237,600,000 and Denver minting 6,360,065,000. Yet hidden among these billions were accidental treasures that would captivate collectors for decades.

By 1999, the familiar Lincoln Memorial reverse had graced pennies for four decades. Designed by Frank Gasparro, it featured Lincoln’s statue visible within the Memorial, making him the only president appearing on both sides of a U.S. coin.

The late 1990s transformed how Americans viewed their pocket change. Armed with magnifying glasses, everyday collectors began hunting for valuable errors—and their vigilance soon paid off. Mint workers inadvertently used proof dies on regular circulation strikes, creating the now-famous Wide AM variety. While normal 1999 pennies showed “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” nearly touching, the wide “AM” had the two letters separated much more.

It’s this subtle difference in spacing that creates such exceptional value. The 1999 Wide AM is one of the rarest examples in the three years since this error occurred. Even in its poorest condition, its initial value exceeds $100, and one MS 68RD recently sold at auction in January 2020 for $4,583.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Pennies Worth Money (1787 – Present)

Is Your 1999 Penny Rare?

Get detailed rarity analysis for your specific 1999 penny using our CoinValueChecker App to identify potential variety premiums.

Key Features of the 1999 Penny

Understanding the distinctive physical features of the 1999 penny is your first step toward recognizing varieties that command premiums in today’s market.

The Obverse Of The 1999 Penny

On the obverse of the 1999 penny you will find a right-facing full bust portrait of the much-loved U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. At the top of the coin is the powerful motto IN GOD WE TRUST. The word LIBERTY appears on the left, behind Lincoln’s back while the date, 1999 appears on the right, in front of his profile.

The Reverse of The 1999 Penny

The Lincoln Memorial appears prominently on the reverse of the 1999 penny. The words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA are imprinted at the top of the coin followed the by the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM in a smaller font size. The coin’s denomination, ONE CENT, appears at the bottom of the coin around the inner rim.

At a closer look, you will also notice the initials ‘FG’ on the furthest end of the Memorial’s right staircase wing. These initials stand for Frank Gasparro who designed the coin’s reverse.

Other Features of the 1999 Penny

The 1999 penny has other notable features. This coin weighs 2.5 grams and measures 19.00 millimeters in diameter. The coin comprises Copper-plated Zinc and has a plain edge.

Meanwhile, in 1999, the Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco mints struck Lincoln Memorial pennies. But only the coins struck at the Denver and San Francisco facilities have a mint mark D and S respectively on the obverse. The Philadelphia pennies do not have a mint mark.

Also Read: 100 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies Worth Money (1909 to 1958)

1999 Penny Mintage & Survival Data

The 1999 penny mintage data reveals a fascinating dichotomy between mass production and variety scarcity, with over 11.6 billion standard strikes contrasting sharply with unknown populations for the valuable S Close AM DCAM varieties.

Standard production followed typical patterns—Denver led with 6.36 billion strikes, Philadelphia contributed 5.24 billion, and San Francisco added 2.54 million proofs.

Besides, the survival distribution shows Philadelphia and Denver each preserving approximately 2.1 billion coins despite different initial mintages, suggesting regional circulation patterns affected attrition rates differently. San Francisco’s impressive 93% survival rate reflects the protected nature of collector proofs.

Also Read: 100 Most Valuable Indian Head Penny Coins Worth Money (1859 – 1909)

The Easy Way to Know Your 1999 Penny Value 

The 1999 penny presents a unique valuation challenge due to its Wide AM and Close AM reverse varieties, where subtle letter spacing creates dramatic price differences. Beyond variety identification, grade distinctions matter significantly—a single grade improvement from MS66 to MS67 can multiply value tenfold.

Evaluating these factors requires examining Lincoln’s beard definition, bow tie sharpness, and memorial architectural clarity. The interplay between variety type, strike quality, and surface preservation makes accurate assessment complex for typical collectors.

Modern technology simplifies this process—try our CoinValueChecker App for instant grade estimates and variety identification using your smartphone camera.

1999 Penny Value Guides

Understanding the differences between these main four types, from their production numbers to their special varieties, is essential for identifying which 1999 pennies in your collection might hold significant value beyond their one-cent face value.

1999 Penny Types:

• 1999 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
• 1999-D (Denver)
• 1999-S DCAM (San Francisco)

Also Read: Value Of Old Pennies By Year (1959-Present)

1999 No Mint Mark Penny Value

The 1999 Philadelphia penny stands as a fascinating chapter in modern U.S. coinage, with 5,237,600,000 specimens struck without a mint mark. These zinc-core pennies with copper plating represent the final years of the Lincoln Memorial reverse design before the millennium transition.

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Professional graders classify these coins into three color designations: coins without any red on them are usually categorized as brown (BN), those with 15 to 20% red coloration are designated red-brown (RB) while those that are 80 to 90% red are graded Red (RD).

This color classification will affect the value to some extent, as red specimens command the highest premiums due to their preserved original luster. Standard circulated examples trade at face value, while mint state specimens show modest appreciation. In MS67, a brown 1999 no-mint mark penny is worth about $10 while a red one graded MS68 would fetch up to $150.

An special specimen graded MS66 was auctioned in 2024 for an impressive $900. This vast price differential between regular strikes and varieties makes every 1999 Philadelphia penny worth examining, as subtle spacing differences can mean thousands of dollars in value.

Historical auction records reveal how condition and variety discoveries have shaped the value trajectory of 1999 Philadelphia pennies across different grade levels.

Current market dynamics demonstrate sustained collector interest in these millennium-era specimens.

1999 Wide AM Penny Value

The 1999 Wide AM penny represents the rarest of three transitional varieties created when proof dies were accidentally used for business strikes between 1998 and 2000. This minting error occurred at the Philadelphia facility, creating a distinctive spacing between the “A” and “M” in AMERICA that transforms ordinary pennies into four-figure treasures.

Professional institutions has graded just over 1,000 coins for this variety with the majority of them being in MS66 condition. Professional grading services recognize three color designations that significantly impact value—BN (Brown), RB (Red-Brown), and RD (Red), with red specimens commanding the highest premiums due to preserved original luster.

Value progression demonstrates dramatic increases at each grade level. In grades of MS66 and higher they usually command about $1,000. Coins graded in MS67 will bring about $2,000 with MS68 graded examples bringing in about $4,000 and higher. The scarcity gradient becomes particularly pronounced at the highest grades, where population drops create exponential value growth.

Most examples for this variety should still be in circulation, with many of them being in the lower mint state grades and the majority of them in AU grades. This ongoing availability in circulation creates the tantalizing possibility that valuable Wide AM varieties remain undiscovered in everyday pocket change.

Historical auction results demonstrate how this scarce transitional variety has achieved good prices.

Current collector enthusiasm for the 1999 Wide AM remains robust.

1999 Wide AM FS-901 Penny Value

The FS-901 designation represents the official Cherrypickers’ Guide attribution for the 1999 Wide AM variety, providing collectors with a standardized reference number for this significant transitional error.

The reverse of this business strike coin was struck with a reverse proof die accidentally, making the 1999 Wide AM by far the scarcest of the three recognized dates for this variety.

Market values for FS-901 specimens reflect their authenticated status and rarity. Recognizes the FS-901 variety also has three color designations, BN, RB, and RD.

Recent sales data shows MS66 RD examples trading around $250 wholesale, while MS67 RD specimens command $800 according to CDN pricing. The pinnacle grade of MS68 RD has achieved remarkable prices, with multiple examples selling between $4,000 and $4,583 at major auctions.

Auction performance for 1999 Wide AM FS-901 attributed specimens reveals how official Cherrypickers’ Guide recognition enhances both credibility and value across all certification levels.

Collector appreciation for properly attributed 1999 Wide AM FS-901 examples continues growing as variety specialists recognize the importance of documented authentication in building advanced collections.

1999-D Penny Value

The 1999-D Lincoln penny represents one of the highest mintage modern cents, with 6,360,065,000 pieces struck at the Denver Mint. This massive production volume makes circulated examples worth face value, but high-grade specimens demonstrate surprising collector appeal due to the coin’s challenging preservation requirements and copper-zinc composition prone to oxidation.

Composed of 99.2% zinc and 0.8% copper, these cents display varying color RD, RB, BN designations that significantly impact value. Red 1999 Lincoln pennies command the highest premiums, particularly fetching $425 or more in MS69. The substantial premium difference between color grades emphasizes proper storage importance for maintaining original copper surfaces in these modern zinc-core cents.

Historical auction results showcase how Denver’s quality control standards have translated into consistent collector demand across all grade levels.

Current market patterns reflect steady collector interest in these high-mintage Denver specimens.

1999-S DCAM Penny Value

The San Francisco Mint’s 1999-S proof penny production of 3,347,966 pieces represents the exclusive collector-focused operation, creating specimens almost never intended for circulation.

These Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs showcase the pinnacle of minting artistry, with heavily frosted devices contrasting dramatically against mirror-black fields. Unlike business strikes that experience color degradation through oxidation, proof pennies maintain their distinctive appearance through protective handling.

Besides, market values for 1999-S DCAM cents vary significantly by grade condition. Proof 69 RD DCAM examples typically trade in the $15-25 range, while pristine PR70 specimens command $50-100+ premiums.

Recent auction results reveal how San Francisco’s exceptional proof quality and variety discoveries have influenced values across different preservation levels.

Collector enthusiasm for these millennium-dated DCAM proofs continues to maintain steady momentum, particularly among proof set specialists seeking high-grade examples.

1999-S Close AM FS-901 DCAM Penny Value

The FS-901 designation for the 1999-S Close AM represents one of the most intriguing proof varieties in modern numismatics, where business strike dies were mistakenly used to produce collector proofs.

San Francisco proof specimens exclusively feature the Deep Cameo (DCAM) designation, showcasing heavily frosted devices against mirror-black fields. The 1999-S Proof Close AM Lincoln cent was accidentally struck with a reverse die intended to strike circulation strike coins only, creating this valuable transitional variety.

Market values for FS-901 DCAM specimens reflect their recognized rarity and collector demand. The auction record stands at $1,035 for a PR69 specimen in 2008, while recent sales show PR69 DCAM examples achieving $552 in April 2023. There are possibly several thousand examples known for this variety, making it more available than the business strike Wide AM but still commanding significant premiums.

The FS-901 attribution provides crucial authentication for this reverse variety, as it confirms the coin has been properly identified and cataloged by variety experts. This official recognition is particularly important for proof errors, where subtle differences can mean hundreds of dollars in value.

1999 Close AM FS-901 DCAM Penny Price/Grade Chart

Price by 1-70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)

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Updated: 2026-01-08 06:21:06

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Historical auction results for FS-901 attributed Close AM proofs demonstrate how this recognized variety consistently achieves premiums across all certification grades and finish designations.

Collector interest in properly attributed FS-901 Close AM specimens remains strong, especially as proof set collectors increasingly recognize this valuable variety hiding in their collections.

To instantly determine if your 1999 penny features the coveted Wide AM variety and discover its current market value, simply scan it using the CoinValueChecker App, which employs advanced image recognition technology to detect critical variety indicators and delivers real-time pricing information tailored to your coin’s specific condition.

 
Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Modern Pennies Worth Money (1959 – Present)

 

Rare 1999 Penny Error List

The 1999 Lincoln penny holds special significance for error coin collectors, featuring several distinctive minting mistakes that have become highly sought after in the numismatic community. These errors occurred during production at various U.S. mint facilities and represent valuable specimens that can command prices far exceeding their face value.

1. 1999 Doubled- Die Penny Errors

A doubled-die error occurs when the die design is struck twice at a slightly different angle. This results in two similar images at a slight offset angle.

This error is quite common among Lincoln cents but is also highly desirable among collectors. An example with significant doubling of Lincoln’s head is selling at an asking price of $5,400.

2. 1999 Wide AM Penny Errors

The Wide AM is another highly sought-after error in the 1999 penny series. This error occurred when mint workers at the Philadelphia and San Francisco facilities accidentally used proof dies to strike pennies pennies resulting in a wider than normal space between the letter A and M in the word AMERICA on the reverse.

Collectors find this error quite fascinating and are willing to pay as much as $300 for a 1999 Wide AM penny.

3. 1999 Double-Struck Off 2^nd Off Center Penny Errors

A double struck off-center error is fascinating and collectors are eager to have such a ‘’weird’’ coin in their collection. This error occurs when a coin is not fully ejected from the die hub after being struck the first time. This results in the coin being struck a second time with the die landing away from the center (off-center).

A 1999 Lincoln penny with a double-struck off-center penny can fetch up to $275 or more if the coin has brilliant luster.

4. 1999 Broad Struck Penny Errors

Broad strike errors are relatively uncommon so they tend to generate a lot of interest among collectors. This error happens when the die hub strikes outside the collar that holds the coin in place and helps to shape its diameter. This gives the impression of a widened penny or one that seems wider than usual.

A broad struck 1999 penny can bring in as much as $85 while one in mint state can be worth up to $100.

Also Read: 42 Rare Penny Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Where to Sell Your 1999 Penny?

Whether you have a single Wide AM variety or an entire collection of 1999 pennies, selecting the ideal selling platform requires careful consideration of fees, audience reach, and payment security. Choosing our online marketplaces can mean the difference between a quick sale and maximum value.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

1999 Penny Market Trend

Market Interest Trend Chart - 1999 Penny

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 1999 Penny

1. Are Any 1999 Pennies Worth Anything?

Most of the 1999 pennies are only worth their face value. All the three mints combined produced more than 10 billion pennies that year, making these coins extremely common. That said, some 1999 pennies are worth slightly more than their face value. Examples of 1999 Lincoln pennies worth money include those with notable errors and pennies in mint state or gem quality.

2. How Much Is A 1999 Penny With The A and M Touching?

A 1999 penny with the A and M touching (Close AM variety) is actually the common version for regular circulation strikes and is worth only face value. However, the rare and valuable version is the 1999-S proof penny with Close AM, which is Worth $99 or more according to USA Coin Book. Close AM coins are worth between $90 and $200 depending on their condition. The confusion often arises because the Wide AM (letters separated) is the rare variety for business strikes, while Close AM is the rare variety for proof coins.

3. What Does It Mean If The A And the M Touch On A Penny?

The A and M touching on a 1999 penny is a result of mint workers accidentally using proof dies to strike coins meant for circulation. Only a few of these coins were struck before the mistake was rectified, making the close AM rare. The 1999 close AM pennies are desirable among collectors with some willing to pay as much as $100 for a piece.