Introduction & Value Overview
A pristine 1890 Indian Head Penny recently commanded an impressive $11,500 at a Heritage Auction, demonstrating the enduring collector demand for this iconic bronze cent. While most circulated examples trade in the $3-$10 range, premium specimens in gem mint state can easily fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This price disparity reveals the fascinating value spectrum of the 1890 Indian Head Penny, a coin that represents a pivotal era in American numismatic history.
Designed by James B. Longacre and produced from 1859 to 1909, the 1890 Indian Head Penny was struck in a bronze composition of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. As part of the latter production period of this series, the 1890 issue presents collectors with intriguing variations in mint marks, die varieties, and production errors that significantly impact valuation.
This comprehensive guide explores the full range of 1890 Indian Head Penny values across multiple grades and mint marks. We’ll examine how subtle variations in strike quality, die characteristics, and preservation affect market pricing, while highlighting the key error varieties that command substantial premiums. Whether you’re evaluating a recent inheritance or strategically building an investment-grade collection, understanding these value determinants is essential for making informed decisions in today’s competitive numismatic marketplace.
Technical Specifications & Key Identifiers
Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Denomination | One Cent |
| Designer | James Barton Longacre |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Edge Type | Plain |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S) |
| Obverse Design | Native American wearing feathered headdress |
| Reverse Design | Oak wreath with shield and “ONE CENT” |
Authentication Markers
The 1890 Indian Head Penny features several diagnostic characteristics that help authenticate genuine examples. The headdress feathers should show distinct separation with subtle raised details visible even on moderately worn coins. Under magnification, genuine examples display fine, uniform denticles around the rim, with approximately 115-120 denticles on both obverse and reverse.
The lettering on authentic 1890 pennies demonstrates characteristic period font styles, with serifs on the letters that remain consistent with other years in the series. The date numerals show distinctive period-specific shapes, particularly the “9” which features a smaller upper loop compared to the bottom portion.
Design Elements
James B. Longacre’s iconic design depicts not an actual Native American but rather a representation of Liberty wearing a feathered headdress. This important design element features prominently in grading, as the feather tips and headband details are among the first areas to show wear.
On the reverse, the oak wreath encircling “ONE CENT” displays intricate leaf veining that serves as another key grading point. The shield at the top of the wreath contains 13 vertical stripes representing the original colonies—these stripes remain visible on all but the most heavily worn examples.
Designer Information
James Barton Longacre served as Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 until his death in 1869. While the Indian Head Penny continued production long after his passing, his original design remained largely unchanged during the 1890 mintage. Longacre’s work on this series demonstrates the artistic transition between early Republic coinage and the Renaissance of American coin design that would follow in the early 20th century under sculptors like Augustus Saint-Gaudens.
Mint Mark Guide & Value Comparison
Mint Mark Locations
The 1890 Indian Head Penny was produced at two mints:
- Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): The vast majority of 1890 pennies were struck at the Philadelphia mint and bear no mint mark
- San Francisco (S): A far smaller quantity was produced at the San Francisco mint, with the “S” mint mark appearing on the reverse, positioned at the bottom of the coin between the ribbon ties of the wreath
The “S” mint mark on 1890 pennies is notably small but distinct, measuring approximately 0.5mm in height. When examining potential San Francisco issues, use at least 5x magnification to confirm the presence and shape of the mint mark, as wear or damage can sometimes create deceptive marks in this area.
Mint Mark Value Table
| Grade | 1890 (No Mint Mark) | 1890-S |
|---|---|---|
| Good-4 | $2-3 | $40-50 |
| Very Good-8 | $3-5 | $65-80 |
| Fine-12 | $4-6 | $100-125 |
| Very Fine-20 | $7-10 | $150-175 |
| Extremely Fine-40 | $18-25 | $225-275 |
| About Uncirculated-50 | $35-45 | $450-550 |
| Mint State-60 | $75-95 | $1,000-1,200 |
| Mint State-63 | $125-160 | $1,800-2,200 |
| Mint State-65 | $325-425 | $5,500-7,500 |
| Mint State-67 | $3,000-3,800 | $10,000+ |
Mint Mark Identification Tips
The 1890-S mint mark can present identification challenges, especially on worn examples. When authenticating an 1890-S Indian Head Penny:
- Examine under proper lighting with at least 5x magnification
- Verify the mint mark’s position is centered between the ribbon ties
- Check that the “S” shows proper period typography with slightly thicker middle sections
- Confirm the mint mark is properly recessed into the die (not raised or added post-production)
- Be wary of altered coins—the significant price difference between Philadelphia and San Francisco issues makes 1890 pennies targets for mint mark manipulation
Mintage Figures
- 1890 (Philadelphia): 57,180,000
- 1890-S: 6,460,000
The substantial mintage difference explains the significant premium commanded by San Francisco issues. While Philadelphia produced nearly 57.2 million cents in 1890, San Francisco contributed just 6.46 million—approximately 10% of the total production. Despite this relatively modest mintage figure, 1890-S pennies are more common than their production numbers might suggest, as many were saved due to their status as the first San Francisco Indian Head Penny issue since 1886.
Most Valuable Mint Mark
The San Francisco (S) mint mark is substantially more valuable across all grades. In circulated conditions, an 1890-S typically commands a 15-20x premium over its Philadelphia counterpart. This disparity grows even more dramatic in uncirculated grades, where MS-65 examples have realized prices exceeding $6,000 at recent auctions—over 15 times the value of similarly graded Philadelphia issues.
Current Market Values By Grade
Comprehensive Value Table
| Grade | 1890 (P) | 1890-S | Value Differential |
|---|---|---|---|
| AG-3 | $1-2 | $30-35 | 17.5x |
| G-4 | $2-3 | $40-50 | 20.0x |
| VG-8 | $3-5 | $65-80 | 21.7x |
| F-12 | $4-6 | $100-125 | 25.0x |
| VF-20 | $7-10 | $150-175 | 21.4x |
| EF-40 | $18-25 | $225-275 | 12.5x |
| AU-50 | $35-45 | $450-550 | 12.9x |
| AU-58 | $50-65 | $800-950 | 16.0x |
| MS-60 | $75-95 | $1,000-1,200 | 13.3x |
| MS-62 | $95-120 | $1,500-1,800 | 15.8x |
| MS-63 RB | $125-160 | $1,800-2,200 | 14.4x |
| MS-64 RB | $180-225 | $3,000-3,500 | 16.7x |
| MS-65 RB | $325-425 | $5,500-7,500 | 16.9x |
| MS-65 RD | $600-750 | $8,500-10,500 | 14.2x |
| MS-66 RD | $1,200-1,600 | $15,000+ | 12.5x |
| MS-67 RD | $3,000-3,800 | Extremely rare | N/A |
Note: RB = Red-Brown color, RD = Full Red color
Price Trend Analysis
The 1890 Indian Head Penny has demonstrated remarkable price stability over the past decade, with steady appreciation in the 5-8% annual range for premium uncirculated examples. The most significant growth has occurred in the MS-65 and above grades, particularly for coins with full red coloration.
Investment performance analysis reveals that MS-65 RD examples of the 1890 Philadelphia issue have appreciated approximately 35% over the past five years, while comparable 1890-S specimens have seen even stronger growth approaching 45%. This outperformance compared to many other numismatic investments reflects growing collector recognition of the conditional rarity of gem-quality Indian Head cents from this period.
Market data indicates that the most dramatic price escalation occurs at the MS-64 to MS-65 transition, where values often double or triple. This value inflection point represents the threshold where aesthetic appeal combines with numerical grade to create truly premium examples.
Condition Impact
The jump from AU-58 to MS-63 typically represents a 150% value increase for 1890 Philadelphia issues. However, the most dramatic value escalation occurs between MS-64 and MS-65, where prices often triple for Philadelphia issues and can increase by 80-100% for San Francisco examples.
For 1890 pennies, color designation becomes critically important in uncirculated grades:
- Brown (BN): Lowest value (often 40-60% of RB values)
- Red-Brown (RB): Intermediate value
- Red (RD): Premium value (often 80-120% higher than RB equivalents)
Full Red examples in MS-65 or higher represent less than 2% of all certified 1890 Indian Head Pennies, explaining their substantial market premium.
Key Date Values
While 1890 is not considered among the key dates of the Indian Head series (like 1877 or 1909-S), the San Francisco issue represents a semi-key date that consistently commands strong collector interest. Recent auction records include:
- 1890-S MS-65 RD: $8,225 (Heritage Auctions, January 2023)
- 1890-S MS-64 RB: $3,120 (Stack’s Bowers, August 2022)
- 1890 MS-67 RD: $11,500 (Heritage Auctions, April 2022)
Market Visualization
The value progression across grades demonstrates the exponential rather than linear price increase for premium examples. While the difference between Good-4 and Fine-12 might be just a few dollars, the jump from MS-64 to MS-66 can represent thousands of dollars in added value.
For the 1890-S in particular, auction records demonstrate that properly certified examples regularly exceed published price guide values by 10-20%, indicating strong market demand that outpaces published valuations.
Auction Records
Notable recent auction results that establish current market benchmarks include:
- 1890 MS-67 RD (PCGS): $11,500 (Heritage Auctions, April 2022)
- 1890-S MS-65+ RD (NGC): $9,400 (Stack’s Bowers, March 2023)
- 1890 MS-66+ RD (PCGS): $4,700 (Heritage Auctions, August 2022)
- 1890-S AU-58 (PCGS): $940 (GreatCollections, September 2022)
These results confirm the strong premium commanded by specimens with exceptional eye appeal, even when compared to similarly graded examples.
Major Error Types & Their Values
Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
The 1890 Indian Head Penny is known for several doubled die varieties, with the most significant showing doubling on the date and LIBERTY. On the most prominent 1890 DDO, distinct doubling appears on the numerals of the date, particularly visible on the “890” digits.
Current market values for the 1890 DDO:
- F-12: $150-200
- EF-40: $400-500
- MS-60: $1,200-1,500
- MS-63: $2,500-3,000
Authentication requires 5-10x magnification, focusing on consistent doubling that appears as part of the die impression rather than machine doubling or strike doubling, which show different characteristics.
Repunched Date (RPD)
Several repunched date varieties exist for 1890 Indian Head Pennies, with the most valuable showing clear repunching on the “90” digits. Under magnification, collectors can observe remnants of the first punching, slightly offset from the final digit position.
Current market values for significant 1890 RPD varieties:
- VF-20: $75-100
- EF-40: $150-200
- AU-50: $300-400
- MS-63: $800-1,000
Authentication requires confirming that the repunching occurred during die preparation (showing consistent characteristics across multiple examples) rather than being post-production damage or alteration.
Misplaced Date (MPD)
A fascinating 1890 error shows traces of a digit punched into the lower drapery below the portrait. This rare misplaced date variety occurs when the date digits were partially punched into the wrong area of the die.
Current market values for the 1890 MPD:
- VF-20: $200-250
- EF-40: $400-500
- AU-50: $700-900
- MS-63: $1,800-2,200
This error is particularly deceptive as the misplaced digit remnants can easily be mistaken for die damage or strike anomalies. Authentication requires comparison with verified examples and expertise in die preparation processes.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes on 1890 Indian Head Pennies range from minor (5-10% off-center) to dramatic (50%+ off-center). Value directly correlates with the percentage off-center and whether the date remains fully visible.
Current market values for off-center 1890 pennies:
- 10% off-center: $100-150
- 20% off-center (date visible): $250-350
- 40-50% off-center (date visible): $800-1,200
The most valuable examples retain the full date while showing a significant portion of the design missing due to the off-center strike.
Most Valuable Errors
The rarest and most valuable 1890 Indian Head Penny errors include:
- 1890-S Doubled Die Obverse: $3,000+ in XF condition, $7,500+ in Mint State
- 1890 50% Off-Center Strike with Full Date: $1,000-1,500 in circulated condition
- 1890 Misplaced Date with dramatic digit remnants: $700+ in XF condition
Die Varieties & Doubled Dies
Snow-1 (S1) Doubled Die Obverse
The 1890 S1 variety shows distinct doubling on the date and LIBERTY, most prominently visible on the “890” and the letters “LIBE” in LIBERTY.
- Attribution: FS-101 (The Cherrypicker’s Guide)
- Diagnostic features: Strong east doubling on date numerals and LIBERTY
- Current values:
- VF-20: $150-200
- EF-40: $350-450
- MS-63: $2,000-2,500
Authentication requires verification of consistent doubling on all affected elements, with the doubling showing proper spacing and orientation for a genuine doubled die (as opposed to machine doubling).
Snow-3 (S3) Repunched Date
This variety shows clear repunching on the “90” of the date, with remnants of the first punch visible below the final digits.
- Attribution: FS-301 (The Cherrypicker’s Guide)
- Diagnostic features: Clear repunching below and slightly left of the “90”
- Current values:
- VF-20: $75-100
- EF-40: $150-180
- MS-63: $600-800
Authentication focuses on confirming the repunching shows proper characteristics of die preparation rather than post-production damage.
1890-S/S RPM
The 1890-S/S repunched mint mark variety shows evidence of the S mint mark being punched multiple times, with a clear secondary S visible west of the primary mint mark.
- Attribution: FS-501 (The Cherrypicker’s Guide)
- Diagnostic features: Secondary S visible to the left of the primary S
- Current values:
- VF-20: $200-250
- EF-40: $350-425
- MS-63: $1,500-1,800
This variety is particularly valuable given the already premium status of any 1890-S cent, with the RPM adding a significant additional premium to the base San Francisco value.
Rarity Ranking
In terms of relative rarity, the 1890 die varieties rank as follows (from most common to most rare):
- 1890 Snow-3 (S3) Repunched Date – Approximately 1 in 2,000 examples
- 1890 Snow-1 (S1) Doubled Die Obverse – Approximately 1 in 5,000 examples
- 1890-S/S RPM – Approximately 1 in 7,500 examples
- 1890 Misplaced Date – Approximately 1 in 15,000 examples
Most Valuable Varieties
The most valuable 1890 Indian Head Penny varieties are:
- 1890-S/S RPM in MS-63 RB: $1,500-1,800
- 1890 Snow-1 (S1) Doubled Die Obverse in MS-63 RB: $2,000-2,500
- 1890 Misplaced Date in MS-63 RB: $1,800-2,200
These premium varieties command significantly higher prices than standard issues, with the value multiplier increasing in higher grades where the diagnostic features are more prominent.
Grading Guide For Value Assessment
Grade-Specific Value Impacts
The 1890 Indian Head Penny’s value progression follows distinctive patterns across different grade ranges:
- Circulated Grades (G-4 to F-12): Minimal value differential, with typical price increases of 50-100% across this entire range
- Mid-Grade Circulated (VF-20 to EF-45): Moderate value appreciation, typically 2-3x from the lowest to highest grade in this range
- About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Significant value escalation, often 50-80% increase from AU-50 to AU-58
- Mint State Grades: Exponential value growth, with MS-65 examples often worth 5-10x more than MS-60 specimens
Key Grading Points
When assessing the grade of an 1890 Indian Head Penny, focus on these critical areas:
- Headdress Feathers: Examine feather definition and separation, particularly at the tips
- Headband Details: The word “LIBERTY” on the headband is a key grading point
- Cheek and Jaw Line: Smooth, wear-free surfaces are critical for AU and higher grades
- Hair Curls: Definition and separation of the curls behind Liberty’s neck
- Reverse Wreath: Leaf detail and veining, particularly on the most elevated leaves
For Mint State coins, strike quality becomes critically important, with well-struck examples showing full feather tips and clear hair details commanding significant premiums.
Strike Quality Factors
The Philadelphia Mint’s 1890 production varies considerably in strike quality, with many examples showing weakness in the central hair details and feather tips. Well-struck Philadelphia issues can command 20-30% premiums over typical strikes.
The San Francisco Mint’s 1890-S cents generally show stronger strikes than their Philadelphia counterparts, with better central definition. However, they often display more die erosion and flowlines, particularly in later die states.
For both mints, coins struck from early die states show sharper details and finer denticles, sometimes commanding 10-15% premiums from specialists seeking optimal examples.
Problem Areas
Specific condition issues that particularly impact 1890 Indian Head Penny values include:
- Carbon spots: Even small carbon inclusions can significantly reduce value, particularly on Red examples
- Cleaning: Improperly cleaned surfaces showing hairlines or unnatural brightness typically reduce value by 30-50%
- Rim bumps: The narrow rims of Indian Head cents are particularly vulnerable to damage
- Porosity: Environmental damage causing pitting or roughness severely impacts value
- Strike-through errors: While technically errors, most collectors consider foreign material strike-throughs as defects rather than premium varieties
Grading Controversies
The 1890 Indian Head Penny presents several unique grading challenges that often lead to disagreements among numismatists:
- Color Designation Thresholds: The distinction between Red-Brown and full Red can be subjective, with different certification services occasionally assigning different color designations to the same coin
- Die Erosion vs. Wear: Late die state examples with die erosion can sometimes be misinterpreted as showing circulation wear
- Environmental Damage vs. Original Toning: Distinguishing between natural toning and environmental damage requires significant expertise
Authentication & Counterfeit Detection
Counterfeit Warning Signs
Modern counterfeits of 1890 Indian Head Pennies typically show these revealing characteristics:
- Improper Weight: Authentic examples should weigh 3.11 grams ±0.05 grams
- Wrong Metal Composition: Counterfeits often use modern copper alloys with different color and aging characteristics
- Mushy Design Details: Most counterfeits lack the crisp definition seen on genuine strikes
- Incorrect Font Characteristics: The date numerals and lettering often show subtle differences in proportion and serif style
- Die Markers: Absence of known die markers for legitimate 1890 and 1890-S dies
Weight and Measurement Tests
Physical specifications for authentic 1890 Indian Head Pennies include:
- Weight: 3.11 grams ±0.05 grams
- Diameter: 19.0mm ±0.1mm
- Thickness: 1.5mm ±0.1mm
Simple measurements with a digital caliper and precision scale can quickly identify suspicious specimens that fall outside these parameters.
Design Element Inspection
Key authentication points in the design include:
- Feather Tip Definition: Genuine coins show proper relief and three-dimensional character to the feather tips
- Hair Details: Authentic examples display proper flow lines in Liberty’s hair
- Denticle Count: Genuine 1890 cents have approximately 115-120 denticles around both obverse and reverse rims
- Letter Spacing: The spacing between ONE CENT on the reverse follows specific proportions
Modern Counterfeits
Current counterfeit threats in the marketplace include:
- Cast Counterfeits: These typically show pebbly surfaces and loss of fine detail
- Struck Counterfeits: Higher-quality fakes struck from custom-made dies, often with minor design inconsistencies
- Altered Dates: Genuine Indian Head Pennies with modified dates to simulate the 1890 issue
- Mint Mark Manipulation: Added S mint marks to Philadelphia issues to simulate the more valuable San Francisco variety
Authentication Resources
For definitive authentication of valuable 1890 Indian Head Pennies, collectors should consider:
- Third-party grading services (PCGS, NGC, ANACS) for authentication and grading
- The American Numismatic Association authentication service
- Advanced metallurgical testing for exceptionally rare variants or high-value specimens
- Consultation with specialized Indian Head cent experts
Collector Strategy & Value Acquisition
Value-Based Collecting Approaches
Strategic approaches to collecting 1890 Indian Head Pennies include:
Best Value Entry Points:
- VF-20 to EF-40 Philadelphia issues offer optimal quality-to-price ratio
- AU-50 examples provide the look of uncirculated coins at a fraction of true Mint State prices
- MS-62 to MS-63 Red-Brown specimens often deliver excellent aesthetic appeal without the premium of full Red examples
Quality vs. Quantity Strategies:
- “Date and Mint” collectors need only two coins (1890 and 1890-S) for completion
- Variety specialists may pursue all major doubled dies and repunched dates
- Condition-focused collectors typically target matched pairs of Philadelphia and San Francisco issues in their preferred grade range
Investment-Grade Acquisition Tips:
- MS-65 Red examples have demonstrated the strongest long-term appreciation
- Certified examples with CAC approval often outperform non-CAC coins by 15-25%
- Premium varieties in AU-58 to MS-63 have shown excellent value stability with good upside potential
Where To Buy
Optimal acquisition sources for 1890 Indian Head Pennies include:
- Major auction houses for investment-grade examples (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers, GreatCollections)
- Specialized dealer inventories for varieties and errors
- Major coin shows for opportunity to personally inspect before purchasing
- Online marketplaces with return privileges for lower-value examples
When purchasing uncertified examples, factor in potential certification costs ($30-75 depending on declared value) when calculating total acquisition expense.
When To Sell
Market timing considerations for 1890 Indian Head Penny divestment include:
- Major national auctions typically realize 5-15% higher prices than private treaty sales
- January-March often represents peak annual pricing for premium Indian Head cents
- Current market conditions (2023-2024) show particularly strong demand for choice uncirculated examples
- Specialized Indian Head cent collections often realize premium prices when sold intact rather than individually
Storage For Value Preservation
Proper preservation practices that maintain maximum value include:
- Inert holders free from PVC or other harmful plastics
- Stable humidity environments (35-45% relative humidity)
- Temperature stability without extremes
- Protection from environmental contaminants
- Regular but careful inspection for developing issues
Expert FAQ & Value Conclusion
Key Value Questions
What makes a 1890 Indian Head Penny valuable?
The 1890 Indian Head Penny’s value is primarily determined by its mint mark (with San Francisco issues commanding significant premiums), preservation level, color designation (for uncirculated examples), strike quality, and the presence of any significant die varieties or errors. The most valuable examples combine the San Francisco mint mark with gem uncirculated preservation and full original red color.
Which 1890 Indian Head Penny errors are worth the most?
The most valuable errors for the 1890 Indian Head Penny include the doubled die obverse varieties (particularly Snow-1), the San Francisco repunched mint mark variety (S/S), and dramatic off-center strikes that retain the full date. These error varieties can command premiums of 200-500% over standard examples in comparable grades.
How do mint marks affect 1890 Indian Head Penny values?
The presence of the San Francisco (S) mint mark dramatically increases the value of an 1890 Indian Head Penny, with typical premiums ranging from 15x in circulated grades to 20x or more in uncirculated condition. This value differential reflects both the lower mintage (approximately 11% of Philadelphia production) and the generally lower survival rate of San Francisco issues.
Value Summary
The 1890 Indian Head Penny presents collectors with a fascinating value spectrum ranging from affordable circulated Philadelphia examples at $3-25 to five-figure gem San Francisco specimens. The sweet spot for collector value currently appears to be in the AU-58 to MS-63 grade range, where coins display nearly full mint luster and detail without commanding the substantial premiums of gem examples.
Major value drivers include:
- Mint mark (S commanding substantial premiums)
- Original color preservation (with full Red examples bringing 80-120% premiums)
- Strike quality (particularly important for Philadelphia issues)
- Die varieties (with doubled dies and repunched mint marks most valuable)
- Overall preservation and eye appeal
Market Outlook
The market trajectory for 1890 Indian Head Pennies suggests continued strong performance, particularly for premium uncirculated examples. Current trends indicate:
- Stable to modest growth (3-5% annually) for circulated examples
- Stronger appreciation (6-8% annually) for choice uncirculated coins
- Potential for accelerated growth (10%+ annually) for true condition rarities (MS-65+ Red)
The increasing interest in classic American copper coins among both domestic and international collectors suggests sustained demand, particularly as high-quality examples become increasingly difficult to locate.
Final Collector Advice
When pursuing 1890 Indian Head Pennies for your collection:
- Prioritize original surfaces over technical grade—cleaned examples rarely appreciate in value
- For Philadelphia issues, focus on strike quality and eye appeal within your budget range
- For San Francisco examples, verify mint mark authenticity before making significant investments
- Consider third-party certification essential for any example valued above $200
- Study die varieties carefully—many valuable doubled dies and repunched dates remain underattributed in the market
Whether you’re adding a single representative example or pursuing comprehensive variety collections, the 1890 Indian Head Penny offers rich collecting possibilities with strong value preservation potential.