Jefferson Nickel (Westward Journey Series - American Bison)
Country of Origin: USA - United States Mint
Year of Issue: 2005
Denomination: 5 Cents / 0.05 USD
Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Brief Description
A United States nickel featuring Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and an American Bison (buffalo) on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series to commemorate the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. This specific 'Buffalo' design was a temporary return to a classic American icon for the year 2005.
Estimated Value
$0.05 circulated, $1.00 - $3.00 in high-grade Uncirculated (MS-65), significantly more for 'Speared Bison' error coins.
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free folder or coin flip. Do not clean or polish, as this strips the original surface finish and reduces numismatic value.
Mint Mark
P (Philadelphia) or D (Denver); the position is on the obverse, bottom right near the year.
Mintage & Rarity
Common. Total mintage was over 930 million between the Philadelphia and Denver mints.
Weight & Diameter
5.00 grams / 21.21 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Circulated / Fine (Images are blurry, but significant wear is visible on the buffalo's body and Jefferson's features).
Obverse (Front)
A right-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson, based on a 1789 bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon. Includes the cursive 'Liberty' inscription and the year 2005.
Reverse (Back)
An American Bison (buffalo) standing and facing right. It features the inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'FIVE CENTS'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most are worth only face value. The 'Speared Bison' die crack error is the primary value factor for this specific year/design.
Similar Coins
The original Buffalo Nickel (1913-1938) also features a bison but has a Native American portrait on the obverse and a more rugged design.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic coins will have crisp edges on the lettering and consistent weight. Counterfeits for this common date are extremely rare.
Notable Varieties & Errors
The 'Speared Bison' error (a long die crack running through the buffalo's back) is highly sought after by collectors.
Created At: 2026-06-13T16:33:38.569714