Expert: PAPAJACK - 5/31/2007

Question
I have a 2000 S with a wide AM still in the proof package. Is this coin worth having graded?

Answer
Hello Juston,   

I would not get it graded. It is the normal proof coin.
To my knowledge all the modern proof Lincoln cent dies do have a wide AM. The proof dies are engraved that way and clearly struck with more pressure and at least twice per coin to  make sure the image is very clear.  

Only the circulation strikes with the A and M in the word AMERICA not touching are a rarer but not impossible to find in circulation. Here is a photo of the business strike coin made with the proof die:  
http://koinpro.tripod.com/VarietiesUS/19981cTy2RevMicros.jpg

And a standard die made for circulation makes coins like this:
http://koinpro.tripod.com/VarietiesUS/19981cTy1RevMicros.jpg

Don’t get carried away by these minor verities in coin making. It would only be worth a small premium over the coin in a similar grade that did not have the letters spaced. Although many sellers try to make collectors believe it is very valuable or will be in the future.  

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Good Luck

PapaJack