In 2005, the U.S. Mint released one of the most memorable issues in the Westward Journey commemorative nickel series, created to honor the 200th anniversary of Lewis and Clark’s first expedition following the Louisiana Purchase.
That year, two reverse designs were issued: one featuring the Ocean in View theme, and the other showcasing the American bison—a design that quickly captured the attention of collectors and numismatists alike.
The 2005 Buffalo Nickel is a direct nod to the classic Indian Head Nickel struck from 1913 to 1938, sharing the same iconic American bison motif. Its current value is influenced not only by mintage and preservation but also by its historical significance and the presence of rare minting errors.
Estimated Value Chart for the 2005 Buffalo Nickel
Condition | 2005 P Nickel | 2005 D Nickel | 2005 S Proof Nickel |
---|---|---|---|
MS 63 | $5 | $4 | — |
MS 65 | $25 | $15 | — |
PR 70 | — | — | $30 |
History of the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel

The original Buffalo Nickel—also known as the Indian Head Nickel—was first struck in 1913, designed by James Earle Fraser as a tribute to Native American heritage. The obverse depicted a composite portrait of several Native American chiefs, while the reverse showcased a powerful image of the American bison.
This series ran for 25 years, ending in 1938, yet its bold design and cultural significance made it one of the most beloved U.S. coinage issues of all time. Collectors have prized it ever since.
Mintage Figures for the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel
Location | Year / Type | Mintage |
---|---|---|
Philadelphia | 2005 P Nickel | 448,320,000 |
Denver | 2005 D Nickel | 487,680,000 |
San Francisco | 2005 S Proof Nickel | 3,344,679 |
Total | — | 939,344,679 |
The 2005 Revival
In 2005, the U.S. Mint brought the American bison back to circulation as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Unlike the original 1913 version, the 2005 commemorative nickels carried a new portrait of President Thomas Jefferson on the obverse. On the reverse, two different designs were issued:
- Buffalo Reverse – Designed by Jamie Franki, reviving the legendary 1913 bison motif with a modern touch.
- Ocean in View Reverse – Designed by Joe Fitzgerald, depicting a coastal scene inspired by Lewis and Clark’s arrival at the Pacific Ocean.
These designs were chosen from 144 proposals, yet they lasted for just one year before the Mint returned to the classic Monticello reverse in 2006. This short production run, combined with the historical connection, has made the 2005 Buffalo Nickel a sought-after modern collectible.
Features of the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel
While most U.S. coins have undergone significant redesigns throughout their history, the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel stands out for its nostalgic return to the classic bison motif, closely resembling the design used on the original 1913 Buffalo Nickel.
Obverse Design

The obverse features a right-facing portrait of President Thomas Jefferson, occupying the left half of the coin. The tip of Jefferson’s nose aligns with the coin’s center, creating a balanced composition. This updated view was designed by Joe Fitzgerald, offering a fresh, more personal perspective on the 3rd U.S. President.
Key details include:
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the right rim
- “LIBERTY” in Jefferson’s own handwriting, positioned near chin level – a rare example of cursive text on U.S. coinage
- Mint mark and year of issue in the lower right corner
Reverse Design

On the reverse, designer Jamie Franki revived the legendary American bison from the 1913 nickel, modifying its stance and details while keeping its proud, rugged appearance. The buffalo is centered, facing right, with inscriptions forming a near-complete circle around it:
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” curves along the upper rim above the buffalo’s back
- “FIVE CENTS” sits at the bottom rim
- The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears in three lines just above the denomination
Specifications
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Face Value | Five cents ($0.05) |
Diameter | 0.835 inches (21.2 mm) |
Weight | 0.1764 oz (5 g) |
Thickness | 0.0768 inches (1.95 mm) |
Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
Shape | Round |
Edge | Plain |
2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Grading
Grading is a crucial step in determining the true market value of a coin. Collectors and professional grading services typically use the Sheldon Scale, which assigns a numerical value from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Mint State).
When grading a 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel, experts evaluate:
- Strike quality – how sharp and complete the design appears
- Luster – the coin’s original mint shine
- Surface preservation – presence of scratches, wear, or damage
Sheldon Grading Scale for the 2005 Buffalo Nickel
Grade | Description |
---|---|
1 | Basal State-1 |
2 | Fair |
3 | Very Fair |
4, 5, 6 | Good |
7, 8, 10 | Very Good |
12, 15 | Fine |
20, 30 | Very Fine |
40 | Extremely Fine |
50 | About Uncirculated |
60 | Mint State |
65 | Mint State (Gem) |
70 | Mint State (Perfect) |
2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Value Guide
In 2005, the U.S. Mint struck a total of 939,344,679 commemorative Buffalo nickels across three facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
While most examples are worth only face value due to the high mintage, well-preserved Mint State coins and those with rare errors can command significantly higher prices.
2005-P Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Value

Mintage: 448,320,000
Mint Mark: P (Philadelphia)
Circulated examples generally trade for 5 cents, but uncirculated coins can be worth more:
Grade | Value |
---|---|
MS 60–MS 62 | $0.50 |
MS 63 | $5 |
MS 64 | $12 |
MS 65 | $25 |
MS 66 | $45 |
MS 67 | $1,150 |
Philadelphia also produced Special Strike (SP) Satin Finish coins, which are slightly more desirable:
SP Grade | Value |
---|---|
SP 60–SP 63 | $2–$4 |
SP 64 | $5 |
SP 65 | $6 |
SP 66 | $7 |
SP 67 | $10 |
2005-D Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Value

Mintage: 487,680,000
Mint Mark: D (Denver)
Like their Philadelphia counterparts, circulated Denver coins are typically worth face value, with higher-grade examples fetching more:
Grade | Value |
---|---|
MS 60–MS 62 | $0.10 |
MS 63 | $4 |
MS 64 | $8 |
MS 65 | $15 |
MS 66 | $45 |
Denver also struck Satin Finish SP coins:
SP Grade | Value |
---|---|
SP 60–SP 62 | $2–$4 |
SP 63 | $5 |
SP 64 | $7 |
SP 65 | $8 |
SP 66 | $12 |
SP 67 | $20 |
Exceptional SP coins can sell for several hundred dollars at auction.
2005-S Proof Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Value

Mintage: 3,344,679
Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
The San Francisco Mint only struck proof coins in 2005. These are collector pieces not intended for circulation and feature deep cameo (DCAM) finishes.
Proof Grade | Value |
---|---|
PR 67 DCAM | $1 |
PR 68 DCAM | $2 |
PR 69 DCAM | $14 |
PR 70 DCAM | $30 |
Rare 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Errors List
Minting technology has improved over time, but errors still occur—and for collectors, those flaws can make a coin far more valuable. The 2005 Jefferson Buffalo nickel features several noteworthy mistakes, with some being unique to this issue.
1. Speared Bison

One of the most famous 2005 Buffalo nickel errors, the “Speared Bison” shows a prominent die gouge that looks like a spear running through the bison’s body. This dramatic line can be seen piercing from its back through its midsection.
- Mint: 2005-D only
- Value Range: $30–$60 for circulated examples; $75–$700 for Mint State coins
- Auction Record: $2,650 for a 2005-D MS 66 Speared Bison
Each coin’s “spear” line differs slightly, making every example unique to some degree.
2. Clipped Planchet
This error happens when the blank-cutting machine overlaps its punches, removing a crescent-shaped portion of the planchet before striking. The finished coin is missing part of the rim and design in that area.
Collectors who specialize in error coins often prize clipped planchets for their visual appeal and rarity.
3. Improperly Annealed Planchet

Some 2005 Buffalo nickels show copper tones bleeding through the surface, caused by improper annealing—likely due to the planchet being overheated or struck for too long before minting.
This exposes the coin’s copper core beneath the nickel coating, creating an unusual reddish or brownish hue.
- Typical Value: Around $100
4. Copper Wash
Similar in appearance to the improperly annealed error, but here the entire planchet is coated in a thin copper layer before striking. The result is a coin with a full copper-colored surface instead of the expected silvery-nickel tone.
5. Detached Leg

In some examples, the bison’s front leg appears separated from its body. This is caused by a worn or damaged die that leaves a visible gap in the design during striking.
While it doesn’t command the same prices as the Speared Bison, it’s still a desirable variety for collectors.
Where to sell your nickel?
Now that you’re aware of your nickel’s value, you may be curious about the best places to sell it. Don’t worry: here’s a rundown of some top online marketplaces where you can conveniently sell your nickels, along with their benefits and drawbacks.
Explore the best platforms for selling nickels online (advantages and disadvantages).
FAQ About the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Value
What makes a 2005 Jefferson Buffalo nickel scarce?
This one-year-only commemorative was part of the Westward Journey series, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Collectors love it because it brought back the iconic American Buffalo on the reverse for the first time since 1938. However, with a mintage of nearly one billion coins, most are still common in circulation unless in exceptional condition or with notable errors.
Which 2005 Jefferson Buffalo nickels are particularly expensive?
Some standout auction results include:
- 2005-D MS 66 Speared Bison – $2,650 (2021)
- 2005-P PCGS Genuine Buffalo nickel – $1,225 (2022)
- 2005-D MS 66 Buffalo nickel – $750 (2014)
- 2005-D SP 69 Satin Buffalo nickel – $588 (2016)
- 2005-S PR 70 DCAM Buffalo nickel – $546 (2005)
- 2005-P SP 69 Satin Buffalo nickel – $184 (2008)
- 2005-S PR 70 Buffalo nickel – $28 (2023)
How much is the 2005-P Jefferson Buffalo nickel worth today?
With almost 450 million struck at the Philadelphia Mint, circulated examples usually trade for face value—five cents. Mint State pieces can be worth more, typically ranging from $0.08 to $1,000 depending on grade, with SP and error varieties fetching higher premiums.
What are the most valuable Jefferson Buffalo nickels overall?
Among all Buffalo nickels (1913–1938), key dates and rare errors command the highest prices. The record holder is the 1918/7-D MS 65 Buffalo nickel, which sold for $350,750 in 2006. In the modern series, the 2005-D MS 67 Speared Bison is the most valuable, with estimates reaching $5,000.
What is the “Speared Bison” variety and why is it valuable?
The Speared Bison is a dramatic die gouge variety found on some 2005-D nickels. A prominent raised line runs through the bison’s midsection, resembling a spear. This striking visual error makes it highly collectible, with Mint State examples selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Do proof 2005 Jefferson Buffalo nickels have much value?
Proof issues from San Francisco (mint mark “S”) are popular with collectors, especially in Deep Cameo grades. While common grades (PR 67–PR 69) typically sell for $1–$14, perfect PR 70 DCAM examples can bring $25–$30 in today’s market.
What is the difference between the Satin Finish and regular strike coins?
Satin Finish coins were specially struck for collector sets using different dies and planchet preparation, giving them a softer, matte-like luster compared to regular circulation strikes. They generally command higher prices in top grades, particularly SP 68 and SP 69.
Are there other notable errors from 2005 besides the Speared Bison?
Yes. Other collectible mint errors include:
- Clipped Planchets – Crescent-shaped missing sections.
- Improperly Annealed Planchets – Reddish or copper-colored surfaces from overheating.
- Copper Wash Errors – Entire coin coated in copper before striking.
- Detached Leg Variety – Gaps between the bison’s leg and body from die wear.
Should I get my 2005 Jefferson Buffalo nickel graded?
If your coin appears flawless, has a visible mint error, or shows the Speared Bison variety, professional grading by PCGS or NGC can greatly increase its marketability and value. However, common circulated coins without unique features are rarely worth the grading cost.