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The 1990 $100 Federal Reserve Note graded Gem Uncirculated 66EPQ by PMG is an exceptional example of late 20th-century U.S. paper money, distinguished by its sharp engraving, crisp paper quality, and status as one of the last traditional-design $100 notes before major security upgrades were introduced. This note holds historical importance as it marks the beginning of the modern era in currency production, being the first $100 series to include microprinting as an anti-counterfeiting measure. With a 66EPQ grade from PMG, this note is among the top-tier survivors from its issue, reflecting near-flawless preservation, superior centering, and full paper originality.
Series 1990 Federal Reserve Notes were printed during the George H. W. Bush administration, a period of economic transition following the Reagan years. The notes carry the signature combination of Catalina Vasquez Villalpando as Treasurer of the United States and Nicholas F. Brady as Secretary of the Treasury. The economic backdrop for this issue included a focus on fiscal conservatism and the early signs of globalization influencing monetary systems. While the appearance of the note continued the established design of earlier decades, its inclusion of microprinting marked a critical step toward modern security-conscious currency production.
The obverse of the note features a bold portrait of Benjamin Franklin, rendered in intricate intaglio engraving. Franklin faces right in a classical oval, surrounded by neoclassical scrollwork and a strong border design. The black Federal Reserve Bank seal appears to the left of the portrait, and the green U.S. Treasury seal is placed to the right. Serial numbers in bright green ink are printed in the upper right and lower left quadrants. In Gem Uncirculated 66EPQ condition, the margins are perfectly balanced, the inking is vivid and precise, and there are no signs of handling, smudging, or corner rounding.
The reverse design centers on a finely detailed engraving of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, the site of key moments in early American history. The building is depicted from the east front, with its clock tower and colonial architecture captured in deep green ink and crisp linework. Framing the vignette are inscriptions that read “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS,” with large numerals in each corner. In this grade, the reverse is fully struck, with no signs of circulation or fading, maintaining the clarity and symmetry associated with the finest uncirculated examples.
PMG’s Gem Uncirculated 66EPQ grade confirms the note’s exceptional condition, placing it among the highest-quality survivors. A “66” grade denotes superior centering, outstanding eye appeal, and unbroken paper integrity. The EPQ (Exceptional Paper Quality) designation certifies that the note has not been cleaned, pressed, trimmed, or altered in any way. It retains its original texture, embossing, and paper brightness, critical traits for collectors who value both condition and authenticity. These features make this note highly appealing to advanced collectors and type set builders focused on quality and originality.
Although Series 1990 $100 notes were produced in large quantities, the vast majority were quickly absorbed into circulation due to their high denomination and everyday utility in banking and commercial transactions. Few were set aside in pristine condition at the time of issue. Today, notes that survive in 66EPQ grade are relatively scarce, especially with full originality and certification by a leading third-party grading service like PMG. This makes the note particularly desirable in the competitive market for modern high-grade Federal Reserve Notes.
Historically, the Series 1990 $100 note represents a turning point in the evolution of U.S. currency design. It was the first $100 bill to include microprinting—a tiny but significant addition that can be seen under magnification near the portrait and borders. This was part of a broader effort by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to address growing concerns about counterfeiting, leading eventually to the colorized and security-enhanced redesigns of the mid-1990s. The 1990 series thus serves as a transition between the traditional engraving-centered design and the fully modern notes of today.
The aesthetic appeal of the note lies in its clean, balanced layout, deeply engraved portraiture, and classical American symbolism. Franklin’s image evokes enlightenment ideals and scientific progress, while the reverse design featuring Independence Hall ties the note to themes of governance, liberty, and national identity. The green-and-black color palette and sharp typography make it instantly recognizable, especially as the design remained essentially unchanged for over six decades prior to the introduction of new security features.
Collectors prize the 1990 $100 for its rarity in top condition, historical role in bridging old and new currency eras, and its enduring visual appeal. A 66EPQ note like this fits perfectly into a high-grade type set, a Federal Reserve district collection, or a portfolio focused on the progression of U.S. note design and anti-counterfeiting measures. Its quality and significance also make it an attractive choice for investors seeking certified, well-preserved currency with strong long-term desirability.
The Certified 1990 $100 Federal Reserve Note graded Gem Uncirculated 66EPQ by PMG is a premium example of a pivotal modern U.S. currency issue. With its combination of design tradition, modern security innovation, and pristine condition, it represents the best of both heritage and progress. Whether acquired for investment, display, or historical appreciation, this note stands as an elite specimen of 20th-century American paper money at its finest.