1891 1c MS RB

1891 Cent Production: As the mintage indicates, these were produced in lower quantities than cents of 1890.

Survivability: The dates 1889 to 1893 are all of the same basic rarity. These coins circulated extensively for decades, and higher-grade survivors exist mainly by chance. Still, they are fairly common. In Uncirculated grades, the survival of a small hoard of, say, 50 coins (original roll quantity) can alter the availability significantly for a while. Prices usually do not go down with the discovery of an original roll, as collector demand will eventually absorb the coins. Many darkly toned coins of this date in MS-63 and MS-64 grades came from a hoard that entered the market in the early 1990’s. They seemed to be everywhere for a while, but today the general rarity of this date is still on par with other dates.

Collecting Challenges: Select eye-appealing coins with attractive luster. The percentage of red found on Mint State coins may also be a factor, if it fits your goal.

Collecting Circulated Pieces: The optimal collecting grade for circulated coins is AU-50 to MS-63RB. Usually the availability and lower cost of Mint State pieces attract demand from collectors of circulated coins.

Collecting Mint State Pieces: The optimal collecting grade for Mint State coins is MS-65RB or MS-64RD. This date is widely available in most grades, including gem full red. Most have an average strike; look for full feather tips.

Collecting Proof Issues: This issue is slightly scarce in high grades. Full red gems are very tough to locate. Many come singly struck with beveled edges. Many come darkly toned with a small percentage of these having vivid purple toning, which is highly desired. Cameo gems are rare.

The best variety of this year is the Snow-1 doubled die with strong doubling on the OF and LIBERTY. This variety was discovered in 1990, and very few have been discovered since. Twenty or so other varieties are known, mostly repunched dates, but there are a few doubled-die reverses known. These typically show doubling on the central veins of the wreath, not on the outside edges of the wreath.1891, Doubled-Die Obverse,