1990-S United States Proof Set

Issued by the United States Mint, the 1990-S Proof Set represents a quieter year in modern U.S. numismatics. Sales dipped slightly despite the unchanged issue price of $11.00, making this set a bit scarcer than surrounding years.

Each set contains five proof-struck coins, all produced at the San Francisco Mint and intended to display Cameo or Deep Cameo finishes. The lineup reflects everyday U.S. coinage of the era, elevated through mirror-like fields and sharply frosted devices.

A notable curiosity adds collector intrigue: a small number of sets include a Lincoln Cent missing the “S” mintmark. These errors occurred when a proof obverse die prepared in Philadelphia lacked the mintmark before being sent to San Francisco. Approximately 3,500 “S-less” cents were struck, with an unknown number entering proof and prestige sets.

Coins Included

• Lincoln Cent

• Jefferson Nickel

• Roosevelt Dime (copper-nickel clad)

• Washington Quarter (copper-nickel clad)

• Kennedy Half Dollar (copper-nickel clad)

Special Features

• Proof finishes with Cameo or Deep Cameo contrast

• Known variety: rare “S-less” Lincoln Cent error

• Slightly lower sales compared to prior years

• A classic, affordable entry into U.S. proof set collecting

Packaging
Coins are housed in a two-piece clear plastic case with a purple textured cardboard insert, then placed inside a matching purple outer sleeve labeled “United States Mint Proof Set 1990.” The design is period-typical and fully original to the issue.

Specifications

• Year: 1990

• Mintmark: S (San Francisco)

• Number of Coins: 5

• Composition: Copper-nickel clad (cent, dime, quarter, half), copper-nickel nickel

🪙 Why Collect It?
The 1990-S Proof Set blends classic U.S. proof quality with an intriguing mint error variety. Its modest mintage dip, original packaging, and the possibility of an “S-less” cent make it an appealing and approachable collectible for both beginners and seasoned proof-set enthusiasts.