A Penny That Could Change Your Life
What if a single penny in your pocket was worth as much as $16,000?
It may sound unbelievable, but a rare version of the 2000 Lincoln cent, known as the “Wide AM” penny, has sold for thousands of dollars — and many people still don’t know what to look for.
Even better? You could already have one without realizing it.
Let’s break everything down step by step, so anyone — even beginners — can easily check their coins. 
What Is the 2000 “Wide AM” Penny?
In 2000, the U.S. Mint made a mistake.
A small number of regular Philadelphia pennies were struck using a proof reverse die, which was never meant for circulation coins. This created a visible difference on the back of the penny.
The key detail is found in one word:
AMERICA
How to Identify a Wide AM Penny (Easy Steps)
Step 
: Check the Date
- Look for a 2000 penny
- It must have NO mint mark (Philadelphia issue)
Step 
: Flip the Coin
- Look at the reverse side (the Lincoln Memorial side)
Step 
: Zoom in on “AMERICA”
- Focus on the spacing between A and M
Wide AM (Rare): Clear space between A and M
Close AM (Common): Letters almost touch
That tiny gap is what makes the coin valuable. 
Why Is the Wide AM Penny So Valuable?
- Only a few thousand are believed to exist
- It was an unintentional minting error
- Demand from collectors is extremely high
- Prices have increased steadily over the years
In short: low supply + high demand = big money 
2000 Wide AM Penny Value (2025 Price Guide)
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $300 – $800 |
| AU-50 (Almost Uncirculated) | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| MS-65+ (Professional Grade) | $5,000 – $16,000+ |
Collector Tip:
Coins graded by PCGS or NGC can sell for up to 10× more than ungraded examples.
60-Second Penny Check (Anyone Can Do This)
Grab a 2000 penny
Turn it over
Look closely at “AMERICA”
See a gap between A and M? 
→ You may have a rare Wide AM penny
Real Discovery Story
A college student in Ohio found a 2000 penny in a Coinstar reject tray.
After grading, it sold for $8,500.
His reaction?
“I almost spent it on gum.”
That’s how close people come to losing these treasures every day. 
Beware of Fake Wide AM Pennies
Some sellers try to alter common coins to fake the spacing.
Real Wide AM coins have smooth, natural spacing
Fake ones often show scratches or tool marks
When in doubt, professional authentication is essential.
Where to Sell a 2000 Wide AM Penny
Under $1,000:
- eBay (list under Error Coins)
$1,000 and above (graded):
- Heritage Auctions
- GreatCollections
Best time to sell:
June–August, when collector demand peaks
Helpful Tools for Coin Collectors
10× magnifying loupe (under $5)
Coin storage flips
Professional grading services (PCGS / NGC)
Final Thoughts: Always Check Your Change
Never underestimate a penny.
That ordinary 2000 Lincoln cent sitting in your wallet could be worth up to $16,000 if it’s the rare Wide AM variety.
Before spending your loose change…
Take one minute and check AMERICA.
That small space could lead to a very big payday. 
