Today we are going to discuss another coin “Buffalo Nickel Coin”. You may not know it but, it’s one of the most popular coins ever minted by the United States Mint.
Table of Contents
Toggle2005 Buffalo Nickel Value?
According to the US Coin Apps Price Guide, As of January 2024 are 2005 Buffalo Nickel Value is approximately 5 cents, if it is in average (MS+) condition. But in open market mint state (MS+) 2005 Buffalo Nickel sold for $5.
Specifications of 2005 Buffalo Nickel:
Category: Jefferson Nickel
Year: 2005
Mintage:448,320,000
Mint Mark: P
Type: Westward Journey
Face Value: $0.05
Price:5 cents – $5.00+
Composition of 2005 Nickel: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Weight: 5grm
Diameter: 21.2 mm
Obverse/Reverse Designer: Felix Schlag
Edge: Smooth
![Specifications of 2005 Buffalo Nickel - US COIN APPS](https://uscoinapps.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Specifications-of-2005-Buffalo-Nickel-US-COIN-APPS.png)
2005 Buffalo Nickel Value: Are “P”, “D”, “S” Mint Mark Worth Money?
Image Source: coinvaluechecker
The 2005 Buffalo Nickel holds a symbolic place in the U.S. coinage history. Let’s explore its history, key features, and worth.
History Of The 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel
Information Source: coinvaluelookup
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel was a nod to the much-loved Buffalo (or Indian Head) Nickel minted from 1913 to 1938. The reintroduction of the buffalo design in 2005 came as part of the Westward Journey series, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
The following year, it continued with the 2005 Buffalo Nickel. It is worth noting that this commemorative coin was minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of President Thomas Jefferson’s birth. In fact, his face can be seen on this coin’s obverse side as well as on all other coins in the Westward Journey series.
Features Of The 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel
Obverse Design Features
The 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel featured a right-facing profile portrait of President Thomas Jefferson on the front (or obverse) of the coin. This image was a significant update to the standard portraiture of President Jefferson.
Moreover, the coin’s distinctive traits include the words ‘IN GOD WE TRUST’ and ‘LIBERTY’ inscribed in President Jefferson’s handwriting on the obverse. These inscriptions added to its unique design elements, diverging from the traditional print used on many other coins.
Reverse Design Features
The reverse of the 2005 Buffalo Nickel displayed a return to a classic and beloved symbol – the American bison. This design, encompassed by the inscriptions ‘UNITED STATES OF AMERICA’ and ‘FIVE CENTS’ at the top and bottom respectively, echoed the design language of the buffalo nickel from 1913 to 1938.
Ocean In View Variation
The 2005 nickel was minted in two variations, the second of which represented an ‘Ocean in view,’ relating to the historical expedition of Lewis and Clark. However, both variations hold the title of the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel.
Read Our Latest Guides on Penny:
The Reverse Of The 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel
The reverse of the nickel featured an American buffalo motif, brought back from the 1913 version of the coin. With the phrase ‘UNITED STATES OF AMERICA’ inscribed along the top border and ‘FIVE CENTS’ inscribed along the bottom, the two inscriptions essentially encircle the buffalo image.
Other Features Of The 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel
- The composition of the 2005 Buffalo Nickel is 75% copper and 25% nickel.
- The coin is round, weighs around 0.1764 ounces and has a plain edge.
- Its diameter and thickness are approximately 0.835 inches and 0.0768 inches, respectively.
2005 P Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Value
The 2005-P Jefferson Nickel with the American Bison design may be worth between $0.40 to $1.46 or possibly even more, if it is in uncirculated (mint) condition. This means if the coin shows no signs of wear and tear and looks like it’s fresh from the mint, it could fetch these values.
2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel Grading
Grading a coin involves assessing its condition and overall preservation. Several factors like luster, damage, or errors are considered. The highest-grade Buffalo nickels can sometimes fetch considerable prices.
How Much Is A 2005 Buffalo Nickel Worth Today?
The value of a 2005 Buffalo Nickel greatly depends on its condition, or “grade”. Regular strike nickels, even those in mint condition (MS 65), can typically be found with costs around $5. A Buffalo Nickel with grading errors and high preservation can be worth significantly more.
Read Also Our Latest Guides:
2005 Buffalo Nickel Error
Image Source: coinvaluelookup
Nickels minted with the ‘P’ or ‘D’ marks in 2005 have known errors.
Speared Bison
This is the most famous error associated with the 2005 Buffalo Nickel. The coin shows a die break that appears like a spear going through the bison’s back due to a defect during the minting process. It’s also known as the “Humpback Bison” or “Broken Horn Bison” error.
Die Breaks
Many coins, including this Buffalo Nickel, can suffer die breaks. These are defects that range from minor chips or cracks to significant breaks that heavily alter the coin’s design. Die breaks can be a result of various factors, including metal fatigue, poor die maintenance, or issues with the minting process.
Detached Leg
This error happens when the bison’s front leg gets detached from its body because of a die break during striking. Consequently, the bison appears to have three legs instead of four. This error is relatively rare and sought after by collectors.
Clipped Planchets
A clipped planchet error happens when a coin is struck from a partly cut or incomplete coin blank (planchet). As a consequence, the coin may lack a section of its edge or rim, influencing its overall look and value.
Off Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the die doesn’t strike the coin in the center. This results in a design not fully centered on the coin, impacting both the appearance and value of the coin.
Doubled Dies
A doubled die error is when the die strikes the coin more than once, causing a doubled or distorted image. This affects the overall appearance of the coin and can significantly influence its value.
Die Cracks
Die cracks occur when the dies used to strike the coins develop small fractures or cracks, reflecting on the coin as visible lines or raised areas.
Repunched Mint Marks
Some 2005 Buffalo Nickels seem to have had their mint marks stamped more than once, leading to a blurred or doubled appearance. This can impact the overall appearance of the coin and play a substantial role in determining its value. Related: Lincoln 1981 Silver Penny No Mint Mark
Buffalo Nickel 2005 Upside Down
While some 2005 buffalo nickels might seem “upside down,” it’s essential to note that coins are often struck in what’s known as “coin alignment,” where the top of the reverse design is opposite the bottom of the obverse.
2005 Nickel Ocean in View
The Ocean in View nickels were also a part of the 2005 series. They carry a depiction of the ocean scenes, symbolizing the Lewis and Clark expedition.
2005 Lewis and Clark Nickel
Lewis and Clark nickel refers to the designs of nickels minted in 2004 and 2005 to commemorate the Lewis and Clark expedition. The series includes the 2005 Jefferson Buffalo Nickel. The coins were struck in commemoration of this historic journey.
Read our latest post on In Cod We Trust Quarter Value 2022
Frequently Asked Question
What is a valuable 2005 buffalo nickel?
The most valuable 2005 Buffalo Nickel is one that contains a printing error, such as the “Speared Bison” where it effects the bison’s appearance.
Why is the 2005 D nickel rare?
The 2005 D nickel isn’t inherently rare. However, versions of this coin which have printing errors such as the “Speared Bison” error are considered rare.
Why does the 2005 nickel look different?
The design on the 2005 nickel was changed as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series to commemorate the bicentennials of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Are all 2005 nickels worth money?
All 2005 nickels are worth at least their face value of 5 cents. However, coins in mint or near-mint condition, or coins with misprints, can be worth more to collectors.
Is a 2005 nickel worth?
Yes, a 2005 nickel is worth at least its face value. However, certain coins with misprints or coins in excellent condition are more valuable.
What is a 2005 nickel made of?
A 2005 nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Is a buffalo nickel rare?
Certain buffalo nickels, depending on their minting year and condition, can be considered rare. However, the standard 2005 Buffalo Nickel isn’t exceptionally rare.
How much is a 2005 nickel Ocean in View error worth?
The 2005 Nickel with an “Ocean in View” design has its value depending on whether it has any printing error and its condition, if it’s in mint or near-mint condition, it could potentially be more valuable.
Is my 2005 nickel worth anything?
Most 2005 nickels are worth their face value. Excellent condition coins and those with misprints can be worth more.
Is there a rare 2005 nickel?
The rare 2005 nickels are those with the “Speared Bison” error.
How much is a 2005 S nickel worth?
Since 2005 S nickels were specifically for proof sets and not for general circulation, they can be worth more than nickels from other mints if they’re kept in original packaging or in a near-perfect condition.
What is in a 2005 nickel?
A 2005 nickel is made up of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
What kind of nickel is rare?
Older nickels in excellent condition, those from certain mints, or nickels with printing errors like the 2005 “Speared Bison” nickel are considered rare.
Sources & References