2004 Nickel Value (Errors List, “D”, “S” & “P” Mint Mark Worth)

The 2004 nickel value holds special appeal for collectors as part of the Westward Journey series, which marked the first major redesign of the Jefferson nickel in over six decades. Released to commemorate the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, these coins were minted for just one year.

The market shows significant variation across mint marks and grades, with high-grade mint state specimens reaching $60.25 for Philadelphia strikes and $19.50 for Denver issues, while proof versions with deep cameo finishes typically trade around $1.67.

 

2004 Nickel Value By Variety

This chart displays the collector values for different types of 2004 nickels across various condition grades. If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Jefferson Nickels Worth Money List (1938-Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 2004 Nickel Worth Money

The most valuable 2004 nickels showcase significant price variations across different designs, mint marks, and grades. Leading the list is the 2004-P Peace Medal in MS68 grade, which commands an impressive $4,230, reflecting both its exceptional preservation and the challenges of finding high-grade examples.

Proof specimens also perform well, with the 2004-S Peace Medal PR70 reaching $1,725. The Keel Boat designs show strong collector demand too, with the 2004-D in MS68 at $940 and the 2004-P at $895 in the same grade.

Error varieties add another dimension to collecting, as the 2004-P Peace Medal with doubled die obverse in MS65 fetches $395. The chart reveals that prices don’t always increase uniformly with grade—the MS67 Peace Medal at $336 trades below the MS66 at $374, demonstrating how market availability and collector preferences influence values beyond just numerical grades.

 

History of the 2004 Nickel

The Jefferson nickel remained largely unchanged for 66 years until 2004, when the U.S. Mint introduced the Westward Journey Nickel Series to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The redesign was authorized through the American 5-Cent Coin Design Continuity Act of 2003, signed into law by President George W. Bush on April 23, 2003. This legislation allowed the Treasury Secretary to temporarily modify the nickel’s design to honor these pivotal historical events.

The first 2004 design entered circulation on March 1, 2004, featuring the Peace Medal reverse created by Norman E. Nemeth. Later that year, the Mint released a second design depicting the Keel Boat used during the expedition, designed by Al Maletsky.

The commemorative program extended into 2005 with two more designs, before the nickel returned to its traditional appearance in 2006.

The 2004 nickels marked a significant moment in American numismatic history, being the first major redesign of the series since its introduction in 1938.

The limited production period and historical significance have made these coins popular among collectors, though most circulated examples remain readily available.

Also Read: Top 60+ Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels Worth Money

 

Is Your 2004 Nickel Rare?

Check your 2004 nickel’s rarity instantly with the CoinValueChecker App by scanning your coin to discover if you have a valuable variety or common piece.

 

Key Features of the 2004 Nickel

The 2004 Jefferson nickel stands out as a landmark year in American coinage, introducing two distinct commemorative reverse designs as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series.

The Obverse of the 2004 Nickel

The obverse retains the classic left-facing portrait of President Thomas Jefferson, originally designed by Felix Schlag in 1938. This profile depicts Jefferson with his colonial-era pigtail hairstyle, based on Jean-Antoine Houdon’s famous 1789 bust.

The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears along the left rim. The word “LIBERTY” is positioned on the right side, with the date “2004” below it. The mint mark (P, D, or S) sits to the right of Jefferson’s ponytail, just below the date.

The Reverse of the 2004 Nickel

The 2004 nickel featured two commemorative reverse designs, each issued for approximately half the year.

Peace Medal reverse depicts clasped hands representing peace and friendship with Native American tribes. Above the handshake, a crossed peace pipe and tomahawk symbolize the diplomatic mission.

The inscriptions “LOUISIANA PURCHASE” and “1803” appear above the central imagery, commemorating the historic land acquisition. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” runs along the outer rim, with “FIVE CENTS” at the bottom.

Keel Boat reverse features the expedition’s keel boat in full sail, the vessel that transported Lewis, Clark, and the Corps of Discovery through western waterways. The boat is shown from an angled side view with detailed rigging and sails.

“UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arcs along the top rim, “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears above the boat, and “LEWIS & CLARK” is positioned near the vessel. “FIVE CENTS” sits at the bottom of the design.

Other Features of the 2004 Nickel

The coin maintains the standard Jefferson nickel specifications with a smooth edge. It’s composed of a copper-nickel alloy (75% copper and 25% nickel), weighs 5 grams, measures 21.20 mm in diameter, and has a thickness of 1.95 mm.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Nickels Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

2004 Nickel Mintage & Survival Data

The 2004 nickel production was split nearly evenly between the Philadelphia and Denver mints. The Philadelphia Mint produced 361,440,000 coins, while the Denver Mint struck 372,000,000 pieces, representing the bulk of circulation strikes for both commemorative designs released that year.

The San Francisco Mint contributed 2,992,069 proof coins with deep cameo (DCAM) finishes, created specifically for collectors. These proof specimens represent less than 1% of the total 2004 nickel production.

Survival rates reveal distinct preservation patterns across mint marks. Both Philadelphia and Denver issues maintain an 80% survival rate. The proof coins show a remarkable 98.12% survival rate, demonstrating the careful stewardship by collectors who value these specially struck commemoratives.

Also Read: Jefferson Nickel Value (1938-Present)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 2004 Nickel Value

Your 2004 nickel’s value depends primarily on its grade, which follows the Sheldon Scale ranging from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70). Check the mint mark located on the obverse—coins marked “P” (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco proof) have different values based on their condition.

Look for signs of circulation wear by comparing your coin to mint state examples, examining details like Jefferson’s cheekbone and the coin’s overall luster.

The CoinValueChecker App provides instant identification and grading results by simply scanning your coin, eliminating guesswork about condition and potential value.

 

2004 Nickel Value Guides

The 2004 nickel series was produced at three U.S. Mint facilities, each creating coins with distinct characteristics and purposes. Understanding these varieties helps collectors identify what they have and assess potential value.

• 2004-P Nickel
• 2004-D Nickel
• 2004-S DCAM Nickel

Each mint mark represents a different aspect of the 2004 commemorative series. The vast majority of collectors will encounter P and D mint marks in everyday change, while S proofs remain primarily in the hands of dedicated numismatists.

 

2004-P Nickel Value

The Philadelphia Mint produced both commemorative designs for 2004, with the “P” mint mark positioned below the date on the obverse. These coins circulated widely throughout the year, making them accessible to collectors while maintaining scarcity in higher grades.

The Peace Medal variety had a mintage of 361,440,000, while the Keel Boat followed with 366,720,000 pieces, yet exceptional preservation remains elusive for most specimens.

2004-P Peace Medal

The Peace Medal variety from Philadelphia shows consistent availability through mid-range uncirculated grades but becomes notably challenging to locate in premium condition.

Examples are plentiful in uncirculated grades from MS60 to MS65, becoming somewhat scarce in MS66 and increasingly difficult to find in MS67 or higher.

The auction record for this variety stands at $4,230 for an MS68 specimen sold in January 2016. This represents exceptional value for Philadelphia Peace Medal nickels, reflecting the rarity of coins achieving this grade level.

2004-P Keel Boat

The Keel Boat design followed the same grading pattern as its predecessor, with abundant examples in lower mint state grades but extreme scarcity at the top of the grading scale. In MS68 grade, it is almost unobtainable with about 27 examples known with none being higher.

The auction record for the 2004-P Keel Boat is an MS68 that sold for $895 in 2021. While notably lower than the Peace Medal record, this still represents substantial value for a modern circulation strike.

Most collectors can obtain attractive MS65 to MS66 examples for under $20, making the series approachable for those seeking quality specimens.

The chart below documents auction results for 2004-P nickel.

Collector engagement with 2004-P nickels reflects their historical significance and grade-based rarity among modern Jefferson issues.

 

2004-D Nickel Value

Denver’s contribution to the 2004 commemorative series marked the facility’s participation in one of the most historically significant nickel programs. Bearing the “D” mint mark below the date, these coins entered circulation alongside their Philadelphia counterparts throughout 2004.

When combining both designs, Denver’s total production trailed Philadelphia’s combined output. These D-mint examples remain readily available to collectors, though top-grade specimens are challenging to locate due to the difficulty of preserving circulation strikes in pristine condition.

2004-D Peace Medal

Denver’s Peace Medal nickels mirror Philadelphia’s availability pattern across most grade levels. The coins are common in circulated grades up to MS66 condition, but in MS67 they become very tough to locate from circulation, with most examples at this grade or higher probably coming from original wrapped rolls.

The auction record for the 2004-D Peace Medal nickel is an MS68 that sold for $900. This price point demonstrates solid collector demand for premium examples from Denver.

The grade represents the ceiling for this variety, with no higher-graded examples currently known. Mid-grade uncirculated pieces remain affordable for most collectors.

2004-D Keel Boat

The Keel Boat variety from Denver shares similar rarity characteristics with its Peace Medal predecessor. Examples are plentiful in uncirculated grades of MS60 to MS65. At the MS67 grade level, only several hundred examples are estimated to exist.

The auction record for the 2004-D Keel Boat nickel is an MS68 from the Steven Strom collection that sold for $940 in 2016. In MS68 grade, it is almost unobtainable with about 10 examples known with none being higher, and the 2004-D Keel Boat nickel is a bit tougher to find in MS68 grades than the 2004-P.

Historical auction data for Denver specimens appears below, tracking sales performance across various grade levels.

Trading patterns for 2004-D nickels show how collectors value these commemorative issues.

 

2004-S DCAM Nickel Value

San Francisco’s proof production for 2004 represented a stark departure from circulation strikes, offering collectors specially prepared coins with superior finish and detail.

The “S” mint mark identifies these proofs, which feature the distinctive Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast between frosted design elements and mirror-like fields. The careful striking process and limited handling have resulted in exceptional preservation rates, with many examples surviving in top grades.

2004-S DCAM Peace Medal

Most 2004 proof Peace Medal nickels sell for $4.95 to $9.14, although they sell for more at auction. The Deep Cameo designation adds visual appeal that collectors seek, with the frosted handshake design contrasting sharply against polished fields.

The auction record holder sold as part of a completed matched PR70 set for $1,725 in 2005, with this particular coin having a small planchet flaw between the “G” and “O” in GOD. Lower proof grades remain affordable for most collectors, typically trading in the single digits for PR69 examples.

2004-S DCAM Keel Boat

The auction record for the Keel Boat variety is a PR70 DCAM specimen that sold for $270 as part of a 5-coin proof set in November 2013. The Keel Boat’s detailed sailing vessel benefits particularly from the Deep Cameo finish, which accentuates the intricate rigging and hull details.

Both designs achieve high grades with relative frequency compared to circulation strikes, making proof examples an attractive option for collectors seeking premium quality.

Documented sales records for San Francisco proofs provide insight into pricing across different grade levels and market periods.

The market for 2004-S DCAM nickels reflects collector appreciation for these carefully produced commemorative specimens.

Also Read: 22 Rare Nickel Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Rare 2004 Nickel Error List

While most 2004 nickels trade near face value, certain mint errors can command significant premiums. Error varieties range from doubled dies to striking anomalies, each offering collectors unique opportunities to acquire genuinely scarce modern coins.

2004-P DDO FS-101 Peace Medal

The FS-101 doubled die obverse represents one of the most collectible error varieties in the 2004 Peace Medal series. This error occurs when the die strikes the planchet at slightly different angles multiple times, resulting in visible doubling on the obverse.

The doubling is most prominent on the date “2004” and the word “LIBERTY,” where careful examination reveals clear separation of the letters and numerals. The doubling may also be visible on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and Jefferson’s portrait details, though these typically show less dramatic doubling than the date and LIBERTY.

An MS65 example sold for $185 on eBay in April 2021. Values vary considerably based on grade and the prominence of the doubling, with higher-grade specimens commanding significant premiums among error coin specialists.

 

Where to Sell Your 2004 Nickel?

With a clear understanding of your 2004 Nickel’s worth, the next step is finding the right marketplace to maximize your return. I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide featuring top online platforms for selling your coins, complete with detailed introductions, advantages, and disadvantages.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

2004 Nickel Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ about the 2004 Nickel

1. What makes a 2004 Nickel rare?

Rarity in 2004 Nickels stems from several factors. The commemorative Westward Journey designs were only produced for one year, making them historically significant.

High-grade specimens in MS67 or MS68 condition are exceptionally scarce. While millions entered circulation, finding coins in pristine condition proves extremely challenging.

Error varieties like the FS-101 doubled die obverse add another layer of collectibility. These minting mistakes are genuinely rare and highly sought after by specialists.

2. How much is a 2004 Nickel worth today?

Most circulated 2004 Nickels remain close to face value. However, condition dramatically affects pricing. High-grade mint state examples can reach $60.25 for Philadelphia strikes and $19.50 for Denver issues. Proof coins with deep cameo finishes typically sell around $1.67.

Exceptional specimens command premium prices. The top MS68 Peace Medal sold for $4,230, while error varieties like the doubled die obverse can fetch between $185 and $395.

3. How do I tell if my 2004 Nickel is valuable?

First, identify which reverse design you have—Peace Medal or Keel Boat. Both designs can be valuable, but their market prices differ across various grade levels.

Inspect your coin for any errors, particularly doubled images on the date “2004” or “LIBERTY.” These doubled die varieties command premiums even in moderate grades.

High-grade uncirculated specimens with full mint luster and no contact marks are where real value lies. Professional grading services can authenticate condition and errors, helping you determine if your coin warrants the investment for certification.