Jefferson Nickel (Westward Journey Series - Bison Reverse)

United States of America · 2005

A copper-nickel Five Cent coin featuring a profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and an American Bison (Buffalo) 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 May 13, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

A copper-nickel Five Cent coin featuring a profile of 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 200th anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. The bison design specifically honors the flora and fauna encountered by the expedition.

Obverse (front)

Features a modern, close-up profile of Thomas Jefferson facing right, based on a 1789 Rembrandt Peale portrait. Includes the word 'Liberty' in hand-drawn lettering and the year '2005'.

Reverse (back)

Features an American Bison in profile, reminiscent of the earlier Buffalo Nickel. Inscriptions include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'FIVE CENTS'.

Estimated value

$0.05 circulated; $0.50-$2.00 in high-grade Mint State; up to $20+ for high-grade specimens with Full Steps.

What drives this coin's value

Condition (grade), presence of 'Full Steps' on the building (for other designs) or strike quality on the bison, and the lack of surface bag marks.

Grade assessment

Uncirculated / Mint State. The coin appears to have a strong luster and no significant signs of wear on the high points of the bison or Jefferson's face.

Mintage & rarity

Common; high mintage with 448 million from Philadelphia and 487 million from Denver.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for correct weight (5.0g) and diameter. Since these are common, counterfeits are rare and typically involve major errors that are actually fakes.

Notable varieties & errors

Speared Bison error (a die gouge that looks like a spear going through the bison's back) - high value variety to look for on 2005-D nickels.

Similar coins

1913-1938 Buffalo Nickel (older design), other 2004-2005 Westward Journey series nickels.

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Handle by the edges to avoid oils from skin causing discoloration. Do not clean or polish, as this reduces numismatic value.