Coin and Paper Money Collecting/1990 Silver penny

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Expert: - 2/4/2009


Question
I understand that the 1990 Silver penny is common, as are the other coins that are missing the outer clad layers, but how often does this happen and are there many coins out there without clad layers? Is there a way of telling how many get through? The one I have looks as though it is in excellent condition.

Answer
Hi Mike

A true U.S. Mint error "missing outer copper layer" is not common.  What is common is finding them because most are post U.S. Mint productions that appear to have the outer layer missing.  The item is not silver, but zinc. Your best bet is to have a local PCGS (pcgs.com) or NGC (ngccoin.com) Certified Dealer check out the coin for authenticity.  The other issue is that the certification of one coin can be expensive and your example may or may not be worth the expense.  I've seen examples offered for around $200 but I have not actually seen any sell at this level.    

Because the coin is zinc, please remember that soft plastics can contain harmful chemicals that can react with the coin.  Try using inert materials when storing this coin.   

If you found this information helpful please nominate me for category expert in coins.  If coming through Los Banos, CA please feel free to look us up at Thoreson Numismatics.

Thanks for the question,

Troy Thoreson, aucpro.com

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

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Troy Thoreson

Expertise

Please, no error coin questions unless your coin is dated 1955 or before. I can answer questions regarding all U.S. Coins, Gold & Silver bullion, including regular mint and proof issue coins and currency. Since 2009, I have been contributing to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", by R.S. Yeoman along with two other publications. I currently run two coin shops in California.

Experience

I have over 30 years experience in Numismatics. I own two coin shops and have examined thousands of coins over the years. Please allow up to 2 business days for an answer. This is a free service and I am happy to answer questions - but please be patient and understanding of my time.

Organizations
My company is an authorized P.C.G.S. and N.G.C. dealer. I am a Life Member of the American Numismatic Association and California State Numismatic Association. We are also an authorized Whites Metal Detector dealership.

Publications
I have written articles for Coin World and the Rare Coin Market Report.

Education/Credentials
I have a certificate of completion from the American Numismatic Association on how to detect counterfeit U.S. Gold Coins and how to Grade U.S. Coins along with other certifications. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting and a minor in Computer Information Systems.

Awards and Honors
I am listed as a contributor to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", the Red Book, by R.S. Yeoman. I have been contributing to the Red Book since 2009. I also contribute to the Blue Book and the new Professional edition Red Book. I have many other awards and honors.

Past/Present Clients
My past consulting clients included eBay, Inc., Yahoo! Auctions, and the United States Postal Service. I have many other great customers and help all no matter their level of collecting.

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