Hot ammeter

Just bought a 1971 Duster, 340 4spd. While driving it home noticed the lens on the ammeter was discolored. I touched it, extremely hot and soft. could not see what the gauge was reading. Do you think it is simple as a gauge with huge resistance or something else I should look at.
Thanks
I've had a "similar" problem
My original Ammeter was loose and didn't work properly, so it became hot and the wire terminals started to melt.
It ended with a failed ammeter and voltage regulator and an overcharged battery with 18V.

Pull the cluster and check for some damage on the wires. Then check the screws that are holding the ammeter. Also check your bulkhead connector.