The 2004 Lincoln penny may seem like just another modern coin, but to collectors, some of these coins can be quite valuable. Depending on the mint mark, condition, and presence of rare errors, a 2004 penny can be worth far more than one cent. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 2004 penny: from its history and design features to detailed value charts and error coin listings.
2004 Penny Value Chart
| Type | MS-60 | MS-65 | PR-65 | Error Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 (No Mint Mark) | $0.10 | $1.00 | N/A | Up to $150+ |
| 2004-D (Denver Mint) | $0.10 | $1.00 | N/A | Up to $250+ |
| 2004-S (Proof Coin) | N/A | N/A | $2.00–$6.00 | Rarely higher |
| 2004 Error Coins | Varies | Varies | Varies | Up to $500+ |
Note: Values are estimates and may vary depending on coin market trends and third-party grading.
History of the 2004 Penny
The 2004 Lincoln cent is part of the long-running Lincoln Memorial cent series, which was introduced in 1959 to mark the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the reverse featured the Lincoln Memorial and remained in use until 2008.
By 2004, the penny had become one of the most widely circulated coins in the United States. It was minted in large numbers across three facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco (for proof coins). Although it was a high-mintage year, some errors and special variants from 2004 are highly collectible.
Features of the 2004 Penny
The Obverse of the 2004 Penny
The obverse (front) of the 2004 penny features a right-facing bust of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. This design first appeared in 1909 and remains iconic in American numismatics.
Key obverse elements:
- The word “LIBERTY” to the left of Lincoln
- The date “2004” to the right
- The mint mark (if present) under the date
- The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” across the top
The Reverse of the 2004 Penny
The reverse showcases the Lincoln Memorial, complete with its columned architecture. With a magnifying glass, you can even see a tiny rendering of Lincoln’s statue between the columns — a remarkable detail for such a small coin.
Key reverse elements:
- The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above the memorial
- The denomination “ONE CENT” below
- The country name “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” across the top
Other Features of the 2004 Penny
- Metal Composition: 97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper plating
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Edge: Plain (no reeding)
2004 Penny Grading Guide
Grading plays a crucial role in determining a coin’s value. Here’s a general idea of how 2004 pennies are evaluated:
- Circulated: Worn, minor scratches, discoloration. Commonly worth only face value unless error is present.
- MS-60 to MS-64: Uncirculated with minor imperfections. Slightly more valuable.
- MS-65+: Brilliant Uncirculated, strong strike, and no major marks. Collector grade.
- Proof (PR-65+): Specially struck for collectors, usually from the San Francisco Mint with a mirror-like finish.
2004 Penny Value Guides
2004 No Mint Mark Penny Value (Philadelphia)
The Philadelphia Mint struck over 3.78 billion pennies in 2004 without a mint mark. These are extremely common in circulation, and most are only worth face value. However, MS-65 examples can sell for about $1 or slightly more.
Values:
- Circulated: $0.01
- MS-60: $0.10
- MS-65: $1.00–$2.00
Rare errors or coins with unusual toning may fetch higher prices.
2004-D Penny Value (Denver)
With more than 5.22 billion coins produced, the 2004-D penny is the most common of the year. Like the Philadelphia version, its base value is minimal unless the coin is in exceptional condition or has a rare error.
Values:
- Circulated: $0.01
- MS-60: $0.10
- MS-65: $1.00–$3.00
Errors such as double dies or off-center strikes can boost its value substantially.
2004-S Proof Penny Value
Proof coins are specially made for collectors with high-quality dies and polished planchets. In 2004, the San Francisco Mint produced over 2.9 million proof Lincoln cents.
These coins are not meant for circulation and are typically found in mint sets. Their value remains low unless the coin is perfect or has unique toning.
Values:
- PR-65: $2.00–$3.00
- PR-69: $4.00–$6.00
- PR-70 (Perfect): $20–$40+
Rare 2004 Penny Errors List
Some of the most valuable 2004 pennies feature minting errors. Here’s a look at the most notable ones:
1. 2004 Penny Double Die Obverse (DDO)
- Look for doubling in the date, “LIBERTY,” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Value: $50 to $200+ depending on severity and condition
2. 2004 Off-Center Strike
- Part of the design is missing due to misalignment during striking.
- Value: $20 to $150+, depending on how off-center the strike is
3. 2004 Broadstrike Error
- Coin was struck without the collar, resulting in a flatter, wider appearance.
- Value: $15 to $100+
4. Clipped Planchet
- A section of the coin is missing due to a miscut blank.
- Value: $25 to $75
5. BIE Die Break Error
- A small die break between the “B” and “E” in “LIBERTY,” forming a shape that looks like the letter “I.”
- Value: $5 to $20
6. Struck Through Errors
- Caused when debris or grease gets between the die and the planchet.
- Value: $10 to $75+
FAQ about the 2004 Penny
1. What is the composition of the 2004 penny?
The 2004 Lincoln penny is made of 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper — a copper-plated zinc core. This composition has been standard since mid-1982.
2. Which U.S. mints produced the 2004 penny?
The 2004 penny was produced at:
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- Denver Mint (with a “D” mint mark)
- San Francisco Mint (with an “S” mint mark) for proof coins only
3. Are there any known errors or varieties for the 2004 penny?
Yes, collectors have discovered a few notable error types in 2004 pennies, including:
- Off-center strikes
- Die cracks or cuds
- Clipped planchets
- Broadstrikes
These errors vary in value based on severity and eye appeal. No major doubled die varieties have been confirmed for 2004.
4. What design appears on the 2004 penny?
The 2004 penny features:
- Obverse: A portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Victor D. Brenner
- Reverse: The Lincoln Memorial, in use from 1959 to 2008
5. How many 2004 pennies were minted?
Mintages for 2004 were high:
- Philadelphia: Over 3.7 billion
- Denver: Over 3.5 billion
- San Francisco (Proofs): Around 2.9 million
This makes the 2004 penny a very common circulation coin.
6. What is the typical value of a 2004 penny?
- Circulated coins: Face value (1 cent)
- Uncirculated (MS65–MS67): $0.10 to $5+
- Proof coins (2004-S): $1 to $3+
- Error coins: Depending on the type, may range from $5 to $100+
7. Is the 2004 penny a good investment?
Most circulated 2004 pennies have little to no investment value. However, high-grade uncirculated, proof, or notable error coins are collectible and may hold or increase in value over time.
