Jefferson Nickel: Westward Journey Series - Ocean in View / American Bison
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 2005
Denomination: 5 Cents (Nickel)
Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Brief Description
A 2005 U.S. five-cent piece featuring a modern right-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson and an American Bison on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Part of the 'Westward Journey Nickel Series' (2004-2005), this coin commemorates the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. This specific 'American Bison' reverse design was the third of four commemorative designs.
Estimated Value
Face value ($0.05) if circulated; $0.50 - $3.00 if in high-quality Mint State (MS-65+).
Care Instructions
Do not clean with chemicals or abrasives, as this destroys the numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free holder to prevent environmental damage.
Mint Mark
D (Denver)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; 487,680,000 minted at Denver in 2005.
Weight & Diameter
5.0 grams / 21.21 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
About Uncirculated / Low Mint State. The coin shows signs of light surface scratches and bag marks but retains significant detail.
Obverse (Front)
A modern, close-up right-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson (based on a 1789 bust). It includes the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'Liberty' (in Jefferson's own handwriting), and '2005'. Designed by Joe Fitzgerald.
Reverse (Back)
An American Bison (Buffalo) facing right, reminiscent of the traditional Buffalo Nickel design. Inscriptions include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'FIVE CENTS'. Designed by Jamie Franki.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition (grade) is the primary factor. While common, coins with exceptional 'Full Steps' on the building (for other years) or exceptional luster for this type command premiums. Higher value for coins with errors like 'Speared Bison' (though usually 2005-D).
Similar Coins
Often confused with the vintage 'Buffalo Nickel' (1913-1938) due to the animal imagery, but the modern 2005 coin is easily distinguished by the Jefferson obverse and modern font.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic examples weigh 5.0g and are non-magnetic. Counterfeits of this specific circulating coin are extremely rare, as it is not a high-value key date.
Notable Varieties & Errors
The most famous variety for this year is the 'Speared Bison' (2005-D), where a die gouge creates a line through the bison's back, making it appear pierced by a spear.
Created At: 2026-04-23T06:31:42.074702