Is Your 1990 Error Penny Worth Grading? My Collector’s Perspective

You know that moment when you find an error penny like this 1990 coin and wonder if it’s worth grading? I’ve been there too – holding a coin that seems special but questioning whether slabbing it makes sense. Let me share what I’ve learned from handling similar pieces.

Spotting the Error: Understanding Die Clashes

What you’re probably seeing on your 1990 penny isn’t a rare mint error but a die clash. Picture this: the obverse die (hammer) and reverse die (anvil) slam together without a planchet between them. That transfers design elements between sides – maybe part of Lincoln’s Memorial showing on the front. While it’s a genuine mint mistake, these happen more often than you’d expect, usually from worn dies at the facility.

The Grading Question: Is It Worth the Cost?

Let’s talk numbers. Grading services like NGC or PCGS typically charge $30-$50, but most die clash pennies in nice condition (say MS-63 or MS-64 red) might only bring a few dollars. Honestly? You’d spend more grading it than the coin’s likely worth. I keep mine as interesting pocket pieces rather than paying for encapsulation. Save your grading budget for truly valuable errors like missing mintmarks or major striking mistakes.

• Grading fees often exceed the coin’s market value
• Most collectors treat these as conversation starters rather than slab-worthy pieces
• Reserve professional grading for major errors, not minor die variations

Error or Variety? Where Collectors Disagree

Here’s where things get interesting. Some folks argue die clashes are errors because they’re unplanned mint mishaps. Others call them varieties since every coin from that die shows the same marks. Personally, I side with the error camp – it reminds me of famous clashes like the “Bugs Bunny” Franklins. But whatever you call it, the grading advice stays the same for your 1990 penny.

Mintmark Matters You Should Remember

While we’re on Philadelphia coins, let’s clear up mintmark confusion. No mintmark on a 1990 cent means it’s from Philly – perfectly normal. But here’s a cool exception: the 1990 proof cent without mintmark (struck in San Francisco) is rare and valuable. A few mintmark basics I’ve picked up:

• Cents: Philly didn’t use mintmarks except 2017’s anniversary issue
• Other denominations: Philly added mintmarks starting in 1980
• War nickels (1942-45) have that large “P” above Monticello – always worth a second look!

My Grading Service Experience

I learned this lesson the hard way. Once sent a minor error coin to NGC, paid the fee, and they returned it ungraded – said it wasn’t significant enough. Felt like paying a mechanic who didn’t fix your car! They sometimes overlook instructions too. That’s why I’m cautious about recommending grading for common errors like this die clash.

What I’d Do With Your 1990 Penny

My advice? Enjoy that die clash penny as a neat piece of mint history. Save your grading money for truly exceptional finds. Focus on hunting for high-value errors or rare proofs instead. Always double-check mintmarks and die states, and when in doubt, consult reliable sources like PCGS CoinFacts. Happy hunting – hope your next find makes your heart skip a beat!