Jefferson Nickel (Westward Journey Series - Bison Reverse)
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 2005
Denomination: 5 Cents (Nickel)
Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Brief Description
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.
Estimated Value
$0.05 circulated; $0.50-$2.00 in high-grade Mint State; up to $20+ for high-grade specimens with Full Steps.
Care Instructions
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.
Mint Mark
P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), or S (San Francisco proof); based on the reverse image, a mark would be located on the obverse right side, though it is blurry.
Mintage & Rarity
Common; high mintage with 448 million from Philadelphia and 487 million from Denver.
Weight & Diameter
5.00g, 21.21mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
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.
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'.
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.
Similar Coins
1913-1938 Buffalo Nickel (older design), other 2004-2005 Westward Journey series nickels.
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.
Created At: 2026-05-13T19:44:58.265446