1990 P Jefferson Nickel Value Guide

The 1990 P Jefferson Nickel is a staple of modern American coinage, continuing the legacy of Felix Schlag's 1938 design. While common in circulation, high-grade specimens and those with 'Full Steps' on Monticello are highly sought after by numismatists.

What affects the value of 1990 P Jefferson Nickel?

• The presence of 'Full Steps' (5 or 6 visible steps) on the reverse significantly increases market value.
• Overall strike quality and the absence of contact marks or 'bag marks' on Jefferson's cheek.
• Lustre and eye appeal, specifically for coins graded MS65 or higher by professional services.
• The presence of rare mint errors, such as off-center strikes or double dies, which are uncommon for this year.

How to Identify 1990 P Jefferson Nickel?

• Locate the 'P' mint mark on the obverse, situated to the right of Thomas Jefferson's ponytail.
• Verify the composition is the standard 75% copper and 25% nickel alloy used for the 1990 series.
• Check for the designer's initials 'FS' (Felix Schlag) at the base of the portrait's bust.
• Examine the reverse for a clear, detailed strike of Monticello, Jefferson's historic Virginia home.

History of 1990 P Jefferson Nickel

The Jefferson nickel, first minted in 1938, replaced the Buffalo nickel. Designed by Felix Schlag, it features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse. During World War II, from 1942-1945, the composition was changed to 35% silver due to nickel being a critical war material. These 'war nickels' are identifiable by a large mint mark above Monticello on the reverse. The 1990 P nickel is part of the standard copper-nickel series.