Expert: Ronald Fern - 12/4/2011

Question
Dear Sir, I found a 1998 Penny as I was searching.I immediatley saw that it looked extra nice for its age.Front of the coin not even a scratch.As I turned the coin around I noticed the Close AM(touching each other,no gaps),and the letter FG are far away from the Memorial Building.The definition of the Back picture is extra deep,and all features of the Building are extreemly clear and Bright like GOLD.There are the three Pillars on left and right of the entrance nice very visible unlike other coins of its age.
Is it Possible this is a Proof coin of 1998 missing the S MINT MARK?
It did happen in 1990 to about 1,000 coins.
I did do some research before writing to you via Ken Porter website and everything matched except the Mint Mark.They say only the Proof Close AM are worth anything of the 1998? I can see Doubling of 99 in 1998 as well...
Are PROOF SETs sometimes HIT Double to ADD more Depth?
I read what Charles D an Expert here had answered some questions to other folks that Proof sets are really no more than just more nicely SHINEY made coins.What your thoughts on this?
Has anyone found a 1998 no S Mint MARK coin yet?
I also read via Wikipidia that during this time some errors did happen due to switching around of Dyes or Devices to make the coins.....I know,that you'd require a pic..but please try to help me with some of the General Questions related to this find.God Bless!

Beck
Kissimmee FL

PS: I added a Pic as a general refrence to the Quality of the 1998.

Answer
Mirza:

I'm not an expert on the close "AM" varieties, but you can find all about them at the following site: http://www.lincolncentresource.com/wideams.html

You may want to check ebay listings under US coins in the quarter or exonumia category to see if they are listed and what they are going for.

If you live close to a local shop, they should offer an opinion as to it's value and if it is authentic at no charge. Always try and get at least two opinions and try and deal with PNG dealers if possible. Here's a link to find one in your area: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. Check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.