Price Guide for 1990 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $299.00Uncirculated: $104.00 – $2,990.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $368.63
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $30.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $54.00 – $242.00
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eBayCirculated: $9.00Uncirculated: $0.99 – $525.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $60.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $15.00 – $1,116.25
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eBayUncirculated: $2.50 – $1,260.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $1,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9.00 – $1,093.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $166.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $2,850.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.00 – $920.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $138.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $30.00
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eBayUncirculated: $550.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $240.00 – $675.00
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eBayUncirculated: $381.51 – $699.99
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $75.00 – $650.00
Design and Specifications of the 1990 Nickel
The 1990 Jefferson Nickel continues the long-standing design that has been in use since 1938. This year marked the 52nd year of the Jefferson Nickel’s production, showcasing the enduring legacy of Thomas Jefferson and his architectural masterpiece, Monticello.
1990 was a significant year as it marked the beginning of the post-Cold War era, with the reunification of Germany and continued changes in Eastern Europe. The nickel, as a circulating coin, played its part in the everyday economic transactions of Americans during this period of global change.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing left, designed by Felix Schlag |
| Reverse Design | Monticello, Jefferson's home, designed by Felix Schlag |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1990 Nickels. While these coins are common in circulated grades, they become increasingly valuable in higher mint state conditions. Coins graded MS65 and above can command significant premiums, especially if they exhibit full steps on Monticello’s reverse.
The presence of ‘Full Steps’ (visible lines on the steps of Monticello) is a key factor in determining the coin’s strike quality and can significantly increase its value. Luster and the absence of contact marks are also important considerations for high-grade specimens.
Mintage: 662,256,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to date and mint mark collectors
Mintage: 642,521,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to date and mint mark collectors
Toning can add to the appeal and value of 1990 Nickels, especially if it’s attractive and natural. However, excessive or unattractive toning can detract from the coin’s value.
While not particularly rare, 1990 Nickels with strong strikes and exceptional eye appeal can still command premiums among collectors focused on high-grade modern coins. The popularity of registry sets has also increased demand for top-grade examples of common date coins like the 1990 Nickel.
