2004 Proof Set

The 2004 United States Proof Set is a beautiful and historic collection of coins that captures the essence of American coinage during the early 21st century. It features all of the circulating coins minted in 2004, including the penny, nickel, dime, quarter, and half dollar, as well as the sacagawea dollar. Each coin is carefully struck using a proofing process, which gives them an exceptional mirror-like finish. These coins are produced by the United States Mint specifically for collectors, offering a premium version of the standard coinage that is typically used in everyday circulation. As such, this set is an excellent example of the artistry and craftsmanship of the Mint, as well as a wonderful collector’s item for those interested in U.S. numismatics.

The 2004 Proof Set includes a total of 10 coins, each struck in 90% pure silver, except for the penny, nickel, and the Sacagawea dollar which are composed of copper and manganese. The coins are packaged in a protective plastic case, and come with a certificate of authenticity to validate the set’s quality and rarity. These proofs are part of the annual series produced by the U.S. Mint and are issued as a limited edition. The production of proof sets helps provide collectors with a high-quality version of coins that are usually only available in circulated form. The 2004 set contains some particularly notable features, especially given the importance of the year in U.S. coinage history.

The most significant design element of the 2004 proof set is the quarter, which celebrates the state of Michigan with the state quarter design that was released in that year. The reverse of the Michigan quarter depicts a Great Lakes schooner with a red and white striped lighthouse, symbolizing the state’s maritime history. The obverse features the standard George Washington portrait, but the reverse’s maritime theme sets it apart as a distinct design element of the set. Additionally, 2004 marked the continuation of the State Quarters Program, which had begun in 1999 and included a new design for each state released in the series. This makes the Michigan quarter an important piece in the broader collection of state quarters, which has since become one of the most widely collected series in U.S. numismatics.

The half dollar coin included in the set features a portrait of John F. Kennedy on the obverse, as is the tradition with Kennedy half dollars since their debut in 1964. The reverse, however, remained the same with the iconic eagle and shield design, which represents the national symbol of the United States. While the half dollar did not feature any new designs in 2004, it continued to be an integral part of the Proof Set, marking an enduring tribute to the 35th president of the United States.

The dime in the 2004 Proof Set is a standard issue of the Roosevelt dime series, first introduced in 1946. The coin features the familiar portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse, while the reverse depicts a torch, olive branch, and oak branch, representing liberty, peace, and strength. This coin remains a staple in U.S. coinage, and it has undergone little change since its inception. In the context of the 2004 Proof Set, the dime exemplifies the classic style and the consistent quality of the U.S. Mint’s design and production.

The penny and nickel included in the 2004 Proof Set are also part of the traditional coin designs. The penny features Abraham Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse, with the reverse depicting the Lincoln Memorial. This reverse design was used for more than 50 years before the U.S. Mint introduced the new "Union Shield" reverse in 2010. The 2004 proof penny, however, retains the Memorial design, reflecting a period of historical significance for U.S. coinage.

The Sacagawea dollar, which was first introduced in 2000, is also included in the 2004 Proof Set. This coin features the famous portrait of Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who helped guide Lewis and Clark on their expedition across the United States. The reverse of the coin depicts an eagle in flight, symbolizing freedom and the spirit of exploration. This design was the result of a nationwide search for an appropriate design to commemorate Native American contributions to U.S. history. The Sacagawea dollar is not only a commemorative coin but also a part of a larger effort to include women and indigenous people in U.S. coinage, making it an important piece in the history of American currency.

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• Year: 2004
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