The Liberty Nickel series entered its eighth year during a year of economic hardship within the United States. This seemed to have some impact on the coins issued during the year, as the mintage level for proofs declined and there are comparatively fewer gem examples of the circulation strike available.
As typical, weakness of strike is an important consideration although not generally reflected in the price paid for a coin. The 1890 Liberty Nickel (Buy on eBay) shown above shows weakness in the details of the hair on the obverse and weakness in the lower left portion of the wreath. These aspects did not keep the coin from obtaining a grade of MS64 at a major grading service. With a bit of searching and patience, a coin of the same grade level with a fuller strike can be acquired for around the same cost.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: Charles E. Barber
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Edge: Plain
