Price Guide for 1890 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: $16.00 – $223.00Uncirculated: $92.00 – $16,450.00
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eBayCirculated: $9.60 – $192.60Uncirculated: $44.00 – $2,495.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $210.00Uncirculated: $225.00 – $12,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $805.00Uncirculated: $2.10 – $1,430.00
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eBayUncirculated: $162.50 – $689.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $250.00 – $1,100.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $517.00
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eBayCirculated: $150.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $200.00Uncirculated: $375.00 – $550.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $200.00 – $15,275.00
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eBayUncirculated: $224.50 – $1,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $300.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $881.25 – $16,450.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,750.00 – $20,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1890 Nickel
The 1890 Liberty Head Nickel, also known as the V Nickel, was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin represents a significant period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the Gilded Age, a time of rapid economic growth and industrialization in the United States.
The Liberty Head design by Charles E. Barber was chosen to replace the Shield Nickel, which had been in circulation since 1866. The new design was meant to be more aesthetically pleasing and easier to strike.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the Roman numeral V, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1890 Liberty Head Nickel significantly impacts its value. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, it becomes increasingly scarce in higher mint state conditions. Coins in MS65 or better are quite rare and command substantial premiums.
Strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as many 1890 nickels were weakly struck, especially on the reverse. Well-struck examples with full detail are highly desirable. Luster is another crucial factor, with coins retaining original mint luster being more valuable. Natural toning can also enhance the coin’s appeal and value, particularly if it’s attractive and even.
Mintage: 16,259,272
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Die state can affect the value of 1890 Liberty Head Nickels. Late die state examples with heavy die cracks or cuds may be of interest to variety collectors. The presence of carbon spots or other surface issues can significantly decrease the coin’s value, even in high grades.
While not as rare as some other years in the series, high-grade 1890 nickels are still sought after by type collectors and series specialists. The historical significance of coins from this era, representing the Gilded Age of American history, adds to their appeal among collectors interested in economic and social history.
