PART III. Die Installation Errors:
Mismatched business / proof dies: 1998, 1999 and
2000 Lincoln cent business strikes with proof
reverses (Wide AM) and 1998 and 1999 Lincoln cent
proofs 1998 & 1999 with business strike reverses
(Close AM)
Definition: Subtle differences in design details often differentiate dies intended for business strikes and those intended for proof strikes. The accidental preparation of a business strike die as a proof die is a well-known phenomenon. Examples include the 1998-S and 1999-S proof cents with the “Close AM” reverse.
For unknown reasons, reverse dies (RDV-006) meant for proof coinage ended up paired with business strike obverses: 1998(P), 1999(P) & 2000(P) (all called Wide AMs or WAMs in reference to the wide AM). In two cases, the opposite situation occurred with proofs. Business strike reverses (RDV-007) were matched with proof obverses, as seen on the 1998-S and 1999-S ”Close AMs” or “CAMs”). Only a small number of the 1998-S CAM proofs have been discovered. Both the 1999-S CAM as well as the 1999 WAM are considered rare. The 1998 WAM and 2000 WAM have been found in large enough numbers to keep premiums relatively low in comparison to the other varieties mentioned. It is possible that other, as yet undiscovered, examples of mismatched proof and business strike dies exist in the years 1993 – 2000. Collectors are advised to be on the lookout for them as the potential, while small, does certainly exist.
The changes in design are hard to detect in full. They all involve either a modification in the font used in the designer’s initials (FG) or the spacing between the AM in AMERICA. If searching with just a loupe, be advised that a cheap pocket scope would be a good idea; these can be purchased at most electronics stores. Also be forewarned that there are numerous forces associated with the minting process and circulation that can alter these details in such a way as to produce a resemblance to the real thing. Intentional die abrasion can widen the gap between the A and M. Die deterioration can narrow the gap between the A and the M. Various forms of post-strike damage (PSD) can also create confusion. Always inspect both the FG and AM and always keep an example of each reverse handy for comparison purposes.
The FG on a WAM is the same as the reverse of 1989 — bold, raised well above the field, and with a horizontal hook on the G. Of course, there is that extra space between the A and the M. The CAM (or normal business issue reverse) has a flatter, wider G with no hook and a closer A and M.
The first illustration shows business strike diagnostics for 1998, 1999 & 2000 WAMs:
The second illustration shows proof diagnostics for the 1998 & 1999 CAMs:
