The 1992-D Lincoln Memorial Cent is an interesting coin in the world of numismatics. Struck at the Denver Mint, nearly 4.5 billion of these cents were produced. Normally, this high volume of coins wouldn’t attract much attention. However, a special error in the coin’s design—the “Close AM” variety—has captured the interest of collectors in recent years. In this guide, we will explore the history, features, and market trends of the 1992-D Lincoln Cent, including its rare varieties and what makes it so valuable.
The 1992-D Lincoln Memorial Cent
The 1992-D Lincoln Cent was made in large numbers, with a total mintage of 4,448,905,000. Most of these coins were produced in a regular fashion, meaning they were part of the general circulation. The coin features the familiar design of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse (front) and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse (back). The standard 1992-D Lincoln Cent doesn’t have many unique features, but it is notable for a particular error variety called the “Close AM.”
What Is the “Close AM” Variety?
The “Close AM” variety refers to the placement of the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse of the coin. On most coins, these letters are spaced farther apart. However, on some 1992-D Lincoln Memorial Cents, the letters are positioned very close together, which is different from the normal design.
This variety occurred when a Proof reverse die (used for higher-quality coins) was accidentally used to strike some of the business-strike (circulation) coins. The “Close AM” variety was first discovered by collector Colin Kusch in 2001, and it became a popular find for collectors.
Market Value of the 1992-D Lincoln Cent
While most 1992-D Lincoln Cents are not very valuable, the “Close AM” variety can be worth a lot more. These coins, especially in higher grades, can sell for thousands of dollars. For example, a Mint State Red (MS64) example might be worth anywhere from $3,000 to $4,000. High-grade versions, like MS66, can go for even more, with prices reaching up to $12,000.
Pricing and How to Identify the “Close AM” Coin
If you’re considering purchasing a 1992-D Lincoln Cent, be aware of a few things. First, a typical 1992-D cent in uncirculated condition should cost around $1. However, be cautious about artificially toned coins, as they hold no numismatic value. Also, many sellers might offer “rare varieties” that are not actually true varieties, so it’s important to only buy from trusted dealers who specialize in these types of coins.
The “Close AM” variety is worth significantly more than regular 1992-D cents, but only if it is properly certified by a trusted coin grading service. Always look for coins that are graded by companies like PCGS or NGC to ensure their authenticity.
Notable Examples of the 1992-D Lincoln Cent
Here are some notable sales of the 1992-D Lincoln Cent:
| Coin Grade | Price | Auction House | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NGC MS69RD | $660 | Heritage Auctions | April 30, 2023 |
| PCGS MS69RD | $3,525 | Legend Auctions | May 16, 2019 |
| NGC MS65RD | $3,120 | Heritage Auctions | February 25, 2022 |
| PCGS MS66RD | $9,600 | Heritage Auctions | November 6, 2023 |
These examples show how valuable a high-grade 1992-D Lincoln Cent can be. The higher the grade, the higher the price, especially for the “Close AM” variety.
Conclusion
The 1992-D Lincoln Memorial Cent may seem like a typical coin, but the “Close AM” variety has made it an important piece for collectors. If you are lucky enough to find one of these rare coins, especially in high grades, you could have a valuable item on your hands. As always, make sure to buy from reputable dealers and check for proper certification to ensure the authenticity of the coin. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, understanding the significance of this coin can help you make informed decisions in the world of numismatics.
FAQ’s
What is the 1992-D Lincoln Cent “Close AM” variety?
The “Close AM” variety refers to the close spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side of the coin. This design error occurred when Proof reverse dies were mistakenly used to strike regular circulation coins.
How much is a 1992-D Lincoln Cent worth?
The value of a 1992-D Lincoln Cent can vary. Most common versions are worth around $1, but the “Close AM” variety can be worth anywhere from $3,000 to $12,000 depending on its grade.
How can I tell if my 1992-D Lincoln Cent is the rare “Close AM” variety?
To identify the “Close AM” variety, look closely at the spacing between the “A” and “M” on the reverse of the coin. If they are very close together, you may have the rare variety. Be sure to get the coin graded by a trusted service to confirm its authenticity.