Discover rare 1990 penny errors, their values, and how apps like CoinKnow help identify valuable coins instantly.
1990 penny errors
The 1990 penny error coins represent some of the most exciting finds for modern coin collectors. This year marked a significant transition in U.S. Mint production history, creating unique opportunities for valuable mistakes.
Accurate identification is crucial for coin collectors because the difference between a common penny and a rare error can mean thousands of dollars. Many collectors overlook valuable errors simply because they don't know what to look for.
Coin value apps like CoinKnow can help you identify these errors instantly, provide professional grading, and determine accurate market values. Let's explore the documented errors you should be hunting for.
Rare 1990 Penny Error List & Coin Value
1. 1990 No S Proof Penny Error
This is the holy grail of 1990 penny errors. The 1990 No S Proof penny occurred when San Francisco Mint workers accidentally used a die without the "S" mintmark.
Fewer than 200 examples are believed to exist today. Values typically range from $20,000 to $25,000 or more depending on condition.
To identify this error, look for a proof coin with mirror-like fields and frosted devices. The area below the date should be completely blank where the "S" should appear.
This error is historically significant because 1990 was the last year such a mintmark error could occur. After 1990, mintmarks were added at the master hub stage.
Need help identifying this error and checking its value? CoinKnow offers instant coin identification, grading, and market valuations through their coin value app.
2. 1990 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Penny Error
The 1990 DDO-001 shows doubling on several design elements. You can spot this error by examining Lincoln's tie, vest, and the lettering carefully.
Look for extra thickness on the date, LIBERTY, and IN GOD WE TRUST. The doubling appears as separation lines and notched letters.
This variety was first reported by collector John Shields. Values range from $50 to $200 depending on the strength of doubling and coin condition.
The doubling on LIBERTY is particularly tough to spot on this variety. A good magnifying glass or loupe is essential for proper identification.
Using a reliable coin value app like CoinKnow can help you distinguish true doubled dies from common machine doubling damage.
3. 1990 Off-Center Strike Penny Error
Off-center strikes happen when the planchet isn't properly positioned during striking. The result is a coin with part of the design missing and blank planchet showing.
Values depend heavily on two factors: the percentage off-center and whether the date is visible. A 10-50% off-center strike with a full date commands $50 to $200.
Specimens exceeding 50% off-center are particularly scarce for 1990 pennies. Coins missing the date are worth significantly less, typically $5 to $20.
The most valuable off-center errors show dramatic displacement while retaining the complete date. These make impressive additions to any error collection.
4. 1990 Broadstrike Penny Error
A broadstrike occurs when a penny is struck outside its retaining collar. Without the collar to contain the metal, the coin spreads outward.
These coins appear flatter and wider than normal pennies. The diameter exceeds the standard 19.05mm measurement.
Unlike off-center errors, broadstrikes retain all design elements. The design simply appears expanded and slightly distorted.
Values typically range from $50 to $100 for well-centered examples. Coins with strong strikes and minimal damage bring premium prices.
A quality coin value app like CoinValueChecker can help you distinguish true broadstrikes from damaged or altered coins.
5. 1990 BIE Penny Error
The BIE error is a popular variety among Lincoln cent collectors. It appears as a raised vertical line between the "B" and "E" of LIBERTY.
This error results from a die crack that resembles the letter "I". The crack fills with metal during striking, creating the raised line.
BIE errors are relatively common and affordable. Typical examples sell for $5 to $10 each.
Many collectors enjoy hunting for BIE errors by date. They represent an accessible entry point into error coin collecting.
6. 1990 Die Crack Penny Error
Die cracks appear as raised lines on the coin's surface. They occur when working dies develop stress fractures during production.
The 1990 DDO-001 variety is known to have a die crack running through the "I" of UNITED on the reverse. This adds to its collectibility.
Values vary based on crack size, location, and prominence. Minor cracks add $5 to $25 in value.
Large die breaks called "cuds" are more valuable. These appear as raised, featureless areas along the coin's edge.
7. 1990 Lamination Penny Error
Lamination errors occur when the planchet metal contains impurities or defects. The result is peeling, flaking, or missing layers of metal.
These errors became rarer after technological improvements in the 1980s. A 1990 lamination error is actually worth more than earlier examples.
Post-1982 zinc cents with lamination errors typically bring around $15 or more. Dramatic examples command higher prices.
Look for areas where the copper plating has separated from the zinc core. These create distinctive visual patterns.
How Much is 1990 Penny Worth? Coin Identifier I Recommended
Determining accurate values for 1990 penny errors requires proper identification and current market data. Two excellent apps can help you with this process.
CoinKnow delivers exceptional accuracy for error coin identification. The app uses advanced AI technology to detect doubled dies, off-center strikes, and other varieties instantly. It provides professional-grade assessments and real-time market valuations that help collectors make informed decisions.
CoinValueChecker offers comprehensive market intelligence for serious numismatists. The app includes automatic rare error detection, trend analysis, and auction monitoring. Its robust collection management tools make it ideal for collectors who want identification plus sophisticated market analysis in one platform.
Both apps represent valuable investments for any collector serious about finding and valuing 1990 penny errors.
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