Price Guide for 1904 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $7.00 – $37.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $633.00
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eBayCirculated: $2.25 – $198.51Uncirculated: $13.80 – $780.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $40.00Uncirculated: $45.00 – $175.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $42.00 – $33,600.00
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eBayUncirculated: $21.50 – $1,555.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $65.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $133.00Uncirculated: $81.00 – $1,920.00
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eBayUncirculated: $148.00 – $861.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $135.00 – $1,250.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $47.00 – $48.00Uncirculated: $33.00 – $492.00
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eBayCirculated: $15.50Uncirculated: $0.79 – $760.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $55.00 – $600.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $60.00 – $209.00Uncirculated: $168.00 – $275.00
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eBayCirculated: $168.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $501.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $200.00Uncirculated: $225.00 – $400.00
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eBayUncirculated: $321.00 – $550.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $325.00 – $750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1.00 – $6,462.50
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eBayUncirculated: $160.00 – $732.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $160.00 – $5,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $603.00Uncirculated: $173.00 – $29,900.00
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eBayUncirculated: $184.50 – $3,404.18
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $225.00 – $30,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $399.50 – $7,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $550.00 – $9,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1904 Cent
The 1904 Indian Head Cent was part of the long-running Indian Head cent series, which was minted from 1859 to 1909. This coin represents a late-stage example of the popular design, produced during a period of relative economic stability in the United States. The Indian Head cent was widely used in everyday commerce and played a significant role in the nation’s monetary system during the turn of the century.
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Obverse Design | Indian Head, designed by James Barton Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Oak wreath and shield, designed by James Barton Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1904 Indian Head Cent significantly impacts its value. While common in circulated grades, examples in uncirculated condition become increasingly valuable. Coins in Mint State (MS) grades, particularly MS65 and above, are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
Key factors affecting the coin’s condition and value include:
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
– Luster: Original mint luster adds to the coin’s appeal and value.
– Color: Original red coins command a premium, followed by red-brown, and then brown specimens.
– Surface preservation: Coins free from noticeable marks, scratches, or spots are more valuable.
Mintage: 61,328,016
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular with collectors of the Indian Head series
Several factors can influence the value of a 1904 Indian Head Cent beyond its condition:
1. Toning: Attractive, natural toning can enhance a coin’s appeal and value.
2. Strike characteristics: Sharply struck coins with full details are more desirable.
3. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting die cracks or cuds may appeal to variety collectors.
4. Provenance: Coins with a notable ownership history can command a premium.
5. Certification: Coins graded and encapsulated by reputable third-party grading services often sell for higher prices.
While not a key date, the 1904 Indian Head Cent is popular among collectors due to its historical significance and the overall popularity of the Indian Head series. High-grade examples and those with exceptional eye appeal can command significant premiums in the numismatic market.
