Price Guide for 1904 Nickel 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: $21.00 – $127.00Uncirculated: $48.00 – $5,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $1.51 – $1,800.00Uncirculated: $26.88 – $950.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $110.00Uncirculated: $120.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $101.00 – $661.00Uncirculated: $1.50 – $6,613.00
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eBayUncirculated: $163.50 – $2,070.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $130.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $3,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $470.00 – $23,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,000.00 – $25,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1904 Nickel
The 1904 Liberty Head (V) Nickel is part of a series that was minted from 1883 to 1912. This coin played a significant role in American commerce during the turn of the 20th century. The design, created by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a wreath with the Roman numeral V on the reverse.
In 1904, only the Philadelphia Mint produced nickels, continuing the practice of not using mint marks on nickels at that time. This year saw a moderate mintage, reflecting the steady demand for small denomination coins in daily transactions.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the Roman numeral V, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of 1904 Liberty Head Nickels. While circulated examples are relatively common, coins in uncirculated condition become increasingly scarce and valuable. Specimens grading MS65 or higher are particularly rare and sought after by collectors.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster significantly enhances value, especially in higher grades.
3. Surface preservation: Coins free from notable marks, scratches, or wear command premium prices.
Mintage: 21,404,984
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Several factors can influence the value of 1904 Liberty Head Nickels beyond mintage and condition:
1. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can increase desirability among collectors.
2. Strike characteristics: Fully struck examples with sharp details, especially on Liberty’s hair and the wreath, are more valuable.
3. Historical significance: As part of the Liberty Head series, these coins appeal to collectors interested in early 20th-century American coinage.
4. Set completion: Collectors assembling date runs or type sets may increase demand for high-grade examples.
While not a key date, high-grade 1904 nickels are important for collectors seeking to complete a set in top condition, driving demand for well-preserved specimens.
