Obverse

Reverse

5 Cents (Nickel)

Jefferson Nickel: Westward Journey Series - Ocean in View / American Bison

United States of America · 2005

A 2005 U.S. five-cent piece featuring a modern right-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson and an American Bison on the reverse.

Country: United States of America
Year: 2005
Denomination: 5 Cents (Nickel)
Metal: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified April 23, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

Face value ($0.05) if circulated; $0.50 - $3.00 if in high-quality Mint State (MS-65+).

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).

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated / Low Mint State. The coin shows signs of light surface scratches and bag marks but retains significant detail.

Mintage & rarity

Common; 487,680,000 minted at Denver in 2005.

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.

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.

Care & preservation

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.

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