2005 Nickel Value (Errors List, “P”, “D” & “S” Mint Mark Worth)

The 2005 nickel value reflects a special moment in American coinage history. That year marked the final chapter of the Westward Journey Nickel Series. The U.S. Mint released two distinct designs honoring the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Regular 2005 D nickels in good condition start around $0.14. Mint state examples can reach $11.45 on average. The series celebrated America’s westward expansion with fresh imagery.

Collectors particularly value the 2005 P nickel, which averages $1.00 in good condition and $25.00 in mint state. These coins replaced the traditional Jefferson Monticello design temporarily. Understanding their historical significance helps explain today’s collector interest.

 

2005 Nickel Value By Variety

The 2005 nickel comes in several varieties, each with different mint marks and finishes that affect their value.

If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Jefferson Nickels Worth Money List (1938-Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 2005 Nickel Worth Money

Some 2005 nickels have sold for remarkable prices at auction. The 2005-D Speared Bison graded MS-66 tops the list at $2,650. This error variety shows a distinctive die gouge through the bison’s back.

High-grade examples of both designs command strong premiums. The 2005-P Western Waters in MS-68 reached $1,293. Meanwhile, the 2005-P Bison in the same grade sold for $1,225. These prices reflect the rarity of coins in exceptional condition.

Special specimens also attract serious collectors. The 2005-D Western Waters graded SP-69 brought $1,058 at auction. Even lower grades of the Speared Bison error maintain solid value. A MS-64 example sold for $216, while an MS-65 reached $312.

Proof coins offer another collecting avenue. The 2005-S Bison in PR-70 condition achieved $546, showing collector demand for perfect proof strikes.

 

History Of The 2005 Nickel

The 2005 nickel marked the conclusion of the Westward Journey Nickel Series. Congress authorized this special program through the American 5-Cent Coin Design Continuity Act of 2003. The series commemorated the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

The U.S. Mint released two distinct designs in 2005. The first design featured the American Bison, also called the Buffalo nickel tribute. Artist Jamie Franki created this reverse design. It honored the vast herds that once roamed the American plains.

The second 2005 design showcased the “Ocean in View” theme. This design depicted the Pacific coastline with the inscription “Ocean in View! O! The Joy!” The words came directly from William Clark’s journal entry upon reaching the Pacific Ocean. Designer Joe Fitzgerald created this meaningful reverse.

Both 2005 nickels retained Felix Schlag’s modified Jefferson portrait on the obverse. Designer Joe Fitzgerald had updated Jefferson’s image in 2005. The new portrait showed Jefferson facing forward rather than in profile.

These coins represented a temporary departure from the traditional Monticello reverse design. The Monticello design returned to circulation in 2006. The Westward Journey series successfully educated Americans about westward expansion while creating collectible coins.

Also Read: Top 60+ Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels Worth Money

 

Is Your 2005 Nickel Rare?

To accurately determine if your 2005 nickel is rare, its specific mint mark, grade, and attributes must be analyzed. For a detailed evaluation of your coin’s rarity and potential value, use our CoinValueChecker App.

 

Key Features Of The 2005 Nickel

The 2005 nickel introduced notable design changes as part of the Westward Journey series. Two distinct reverse designs appeared this year.

The obverse featured an updated Jefferson portrait. These coins maintained the traditional composition and specifications. Understanding these features helps collectors identify and evaluate their nickels properly.

The Obverse Of The 2005 Nickel

The obverse displays a forward-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson. Designer Joe Fitzgerald created this updated image in 2005. Jefferson appears in a three-quarter profile view facing right.

The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” curves along the upper right area. The word “LIBERTY” appears in script on the right side, near Jefferson’s mouth. The mint mark is positioned below “LIBERTY” on the right. The date “2005” sits at the lower right, beneath the mint mark.

The Reverse Of The 2005 Nickel

The U.S. Mint released two distinct reverse designs in 2005. Each design represents a different stage of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

The first design features the American Bison in right-facing profile. Jamie Franki designed this tribute to the vast buffalo herds. The bison stands prominently in the center of the coin.

The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” curve along the top rim. “FIVE CENTS” appears at the bottom in large letters. The phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed below the bison, just above the ground line.

The second design showcases the Ocean in View theme. Designer Joe Fitzgerald created this Pacific coastline scene. It depicts the moment Lewis and Clark reached the western ocean. The left side shows coastal cliffs with evergreen trees. The right side displays the Pacific Ocean with gentle waves.

The inscription “Ocean in View! O! The joy!” appears in the center. “E PLURIBUS UNUM” curves along the upper left rim. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” follows the upper right curve.

At the bottom, “LEWIS & CLARK 1805” appears on the left. “FIVE CENTS” is positioned on the right side. Both designs replaced the traditional Monticello building that year.

Other Features Of The 2005 Nickel

The 2005 nickel maintains standard specifications used since 1866. It weighs 5.00 grams and measures 21.21 millimeters in diameter. The composition consists of 75% copper and 25% nickel.

The coin features a plain edge without reeding. Mint marks appear on the obverse, right of Jefferson’s portrait. Philadelphia coins show a “P” while Denver coins display a “D.” San Francisco produced only proof coins marked with an “S.”

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Nickels Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

2005 Nickel Mintage & Survival Data

The U.S. Mint produced massive quantities of 2005 nickels for circulation. The Denver facility led production with 487,680,000 coins struck. Philadelphia followed closely with 448,320,000 nickels minted. These high mintage numbers reflect the strong demand for circulating coinage.

Special collector versions had much smaller production runs. The San Francisco Mint produced 3,344,679 proof coins with deep cameo finishes. These S DCAM nickels were sold exclusively in proof sets. Special Strike versions with satin finishes had limited mintages of 1,160,000 each from both Philadelphia and Denver.

Unfortunately, survival data remains unknown for all varieties. The exact number of coins still existing cannot be determined. Circulated pieces from Philadelphia and Denver likely number in the hundreds of millions. However, many have been lost, damaged, or removed from circulation over the past two decades.

Also Read: Jefferson Nickel Value (1938-Present)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 2005 Nickel Value

Determining your 2005 nickel’s value requires careful examination of its condition and variety. Check the mint mark and identify which reverse design you have. Look for any errors like the Speared Bison variety. Assess the coin’s grade by examining wear and luster. For accurate and instant valuations, download the CoinValueChecker App. It provides real-time pricing data and helps you identify valuable varieties quickly.

 

2005 Nickel Value Guides

• 2005-P Nickel– Philadelphia Mint circulation strike with high mintage, available in both Bison and Ocean in View designs
• 2005-D Nickel– Denver Mint circulation strike including the valuable Speared Bison error variety
• 2005-S DCAM Nickel– San Francisco proof coins with deep cameo contrast, sold only in proof sets
• 2005-P Special Strike– Philadelphia satin finish specimens created for collector sets with distinctive appearance
• 2005-D Special Strike– Denver satin finish specimens featuring matte-like surfaces different from regular circulation coins

Understanding these five categories helps collectors navigate the 2005 nickel market effectively. Each type has distinct characteristics and value ranges.

Circulation strikes from Philadelphia and Denver remain common and affordable. Proof coins offer mirror-like surfaces with frosted designs. Special Strike versions feature unique satin finishes that appeal to advanced collectors. Knowing which variety you own is essential for accurate valuation.

 

2005-P Nickel Value

The 2005-P nickel represents Philadelphia’s contribution to the Westward Journey series. The mint produced 448,320,000 coins total across both reverse designs. This high mintage makes most circulated examples readily available.

However, pristine uncirculated specimens remain challenging to locate. Values range from face value for worn pieces to over $1,000 for the finest known examples. Both the Bison and Western Waters designs share equal collectible appeal among numismatists.

2005-P Bison

The 2005-P Bison showcases Jamie Franki’s American Buffalo design. This was the first reverse to debut in 2005. The coin features detailed artwork depicting the iconic animal standing on a mound.

Most circulated examples remain common and affordable today. Collectors focus on pristine uncirculated specimens with strong strikes. Coins with full details and original luster command significant premiums.

High-grade examples in MS-67 condition have sold for $999 at auction. The finest known MS-68 specimen achieved $1,225. These prices reflect the difficulty of finding perfectly preserved examples.

2005-P Western Waters

The 2005-P Western Waters features Joe Fitzgerald’s Pacific Ocean design. This second reverse design appeared later in 2005. It depicts the coastal landscape with evergreen trees and ocean waves. The inscription captures William Clark’s historic moment upon reaching the Pacific.

This variety shows similar scarcity patterns in top grades as the Bison. Well-struck examples with strong details attract collector attention.

An exceptional MS-68 specimen achieved $1,293 at auction, representing the highest recorded sale. Most mint state coins trade for considerably less depending on their specific grade and overall eye appeal.

Auction records show how collector demand has evolved over the years for this variety.

Monthly market activity reflects current collector interest in this variety.

 

2005-D Nickel Value

The 2005-D nickel holds special significance for error collectors. Denver minted 487,680,000 coins, the highest production of any 2005 nickel. This facility produced the famous Speared Bison error variety.

Regular circulation strikes remain common and trade near face value. High-grade uncirculated examples command premiums from specialists. The Speared Bison variety can reach thousands of dollars depending on grade. Values span from 5 cents to over $2,000 for exceptional pieces.

2005-D Bison

The 2005-D Bison features Jamie Franki’s detailed American Buffalo design. Denver struck this variety with generally strong quality control. Most examples show clear details on the buffalo’s fur and musculature.

The coin also includes the famous Speared Bison error variety, which will be discussed separately.Regular strikes in circulated condition remain readily available. Uncirculated examples with original luster appeal to collectors.

An MS-67 specimen sold for $750 at auction, demonstrating strong demand for high-grade pieces. Coins with exceptional eye appeal and sharp strikes command the highest premiums in today’s market.

2005-D Western Waters

The 2005-D Western Waters depicts Joe Fitzgerald’s Pacific coastline scene. Denver produced 411,120,000 coins with this reverse design. The lower mintage compared to the Bison makes it slightly scarcer. Collectors appreciate the detailed artwork showing coastal trees and ocean waves.

An MS-66 example achieved $141 at auction in 2021. Higher grades in MS-67 and above become considerably rarer. Well-struck specimens with full design details attract premium prices.

Historical auction prices reveal interesting trends in the 2005-D Satin Finish market.

The chart below shows trading patterns throughout the year for these coins.

 

2005-S DCAM Nickel Value

The 2005-S DCAM nickel represents the finest proof quality from San Francisco. DCAM stands for Deep Cameo, indicating strong contrast between frosted devices and mirror fields. The mint produced 3,344,679 proof coins across both designs.

These coins were sold exclusively in annual proof sets. Collectors prize the dramatic visual appeal of Deep Cameo specimens. Values range from $2 for lower proof grades to over $500 for perfect examples.

2005-S DCAM Bison

The 2005-S DCAM Bison showcases superior proof craftsmanship. The frosted buffalo design contrasts sharply against mirror-like backgrounds. This dramatic effect makes the coin highly desirable among collectors. San Francisco’s proof dies produced exceptional detail throughout the design.

Most examples grade PR-69 or below due to handling marks. Perfect PR-70 specimens represent the ultimate condition for this variety. A PR-70 DCAM Bison achieved $546 at auction, reflecting strong collector demand.

The deep cameo contrast enhances the buffalo’s detailed features significantly. These proofs remain popular with both type collectors and series specialists.

2005-S DCAM Western Waters

The 2005-S DCAM Western Waters displays Joe Fitzgerald’s coastal scene with exceptional clarity. The proof finish highlights intricate details of the trees and ocean waves.

This variety shares similar production numbers with the Bison proof. Finding flawless PR-70 examples proves challenging even among proof coins. Handling during packaging often leaves minor contact marks.

Most specimens grade PR-69 DCAM and remain affordable for collectors. The dramatic visual appeal makes this variety a favorite among Westward Journey proof enthusiasts.

The chart below tracks notable auction results for this special strike variety..

Trading volume by month demonstrates seasonal patterns in collector demand.

 

2005-P Satin Finish Special Strike Nickel Value

The 2005-P Satin Finish represents a unique collector product from Philadelphia. These coins feature distinctive matte-like surfaces different from regular circulation strikes. The U.S. Mint included them exclusively in annual uncirculated mint sets.

Production totaled 1,160,000 coins across both designs. The satin finish creates a softer, more subdued appearance than proof coins. Values range from $8 to over $100 depending on grade and eye appeal.

2005-P Satin Finish Special Strike Bison

The 2005-P Satin Finish Bison displays Jamie Franki’s buffalo design with unique surface characteristics. The matte finish reduces reflectivity while maintaining sharp details.

Most examples grade between SP-67 and SP-69 condition. Finding flawless SP-70 specimens proves extremely challenging. The highest recorded auction price reached $10.22 for a top-grade example.

The satin finish enhances the buffalo’s texture and fur details subtly. These special strikes appeal to collectors building complete Westward Journey sets.

2005-P Satin Finish Special Strike Western Waters

The 2005-P Satin Finish Western Waters showcases Joe Fitzgerald’s coastal design with subdued luster. The matte surface treatment highlights the scene’s intricate details effectively. Coastal trees and ocean waves appear with exceptional clarity under the satin finish.

Grade distribution remains similar to the Bison variety across the population. Most specimens fall between SP-67 and SP-69 grades. Contact marks from mint set packaging affect many examples.

The variety remains affordable for most collectors seeking special mint products. Collectors appreciate these coins as alternatives to traditional proofs and circulation strikes.

Past auction sales provide insight into price movements for this collector variety.

The following data tracks market engagement with this variety across different months.

 

2005-D Satin Finish Special Strike Nickel Value

The 2005-D Satin Finish represents Denver’s contribution to the special strike program. These coins share the same distinctive matte surface as Philadelphia’s specimens.

The U.S. Mint included them in annual uncirculated mint sets exclusively. Production matched Philadelphia at 1,160,000 coins across both designs.

The satin finish distinguishes these coins from regular Denver circulation strikes. Values range from $8 to approximately $100 for exceptional examples.

2005-D Satin Finish Special Strike Bison

The 2005-D Satin Finish Bison features Jamie Franki’s buffalo design with subdued luster. The matte finish creates a unique appearance that differs from both proofs and business strikes.

Denver’s special striking process maintained sharp design details throughout production. These coins never entered general circulation.

An SP-69 example sold for $588 at Heritage Auctions in 2016. The satin surface enhances the buffalo’s textural details subtly. Collectors value these coins as part of complete Westward Journey special strike sets.

2005-D Satin Finish Special Strike Western Waters

The 2005-D Satin Finish Western Waters displays Joe Fitzgerald’s Pacific scene with matte surfaces. The special finish highlights the coastal landscape’s intricate elements effectively. This variety shares production characteristics with the Bison satin finish coins.

An SP-69 specimen achieved $1,058 at Heritage Auctions in 2016. This higher auction price reflects strong demand for premium quality examples.

The Western Waters design proves slightly more popular among some collectors. Grade distribution remains consistent with other 2005 satin finish varieties. These special strikes complete the full range of Denver’s 2005 nickel production.

Auction performance demonstrates how the market values these satin finish specimens.

Monthly activity levels indicate how frequently these coins change hands in the market.

Also Read: 22 Rare Nickel Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Rare 2005 Nickel Error List

The 2005 nickel series includes several notable error varieties that attract serious collector attention. These errors occurred during the minting process and create unique characteristics.

Error coins typically command significant premiums over regular strikes. Understanding these varieties helps collectors identify valuable pieces in circulation or collections.

1. 2005-D Speared Bison

The Speared Bison represents the most famous 2005 nickel error. A damaged die created a dramatic raised line across the buffalo’s back. This die gouge resembles a spear piercing through the animal. The error appears only on 2005-D Bison nickels from Denver.

Collectors can easily identify this variety with careful examination. The “spear” line runs diagonally from the buffalo’s midsection upward. This distinctive feature makes authentication straightforward even for novice collectors.

An MS-66 example achieved $2,650 at eBay auction in 2021. This represents the highest recorded price for this error variety. Even lower-grade specimens maintain strong collector demand and premium values.

2. 2005-P Satin Finish Bison DDO FS-101

The DDO FS-101 variety shows doubled die characteristics on the obverse. Doubling appears most noticeably on Jefferson’s portrait and surrounding inscriptions. This error occurred on satin finish special strikes from Philadelphia. The variety designation FS-101 refers to the Fivaz-Stanton numbering system.

Identifying this variety requires magnification and careful observation. The doubling effect creates a slight shadow or duplicate image. Collectors value this variety for its combination of special strike finish and error characteristics.

An SP-69 specimen sold for $150 at eBay auction in 2019. This price reflects moderate demand compared to the Speared Bison error. The variety remains accessible for collectors building error type sets.

 

Where To Sell Your 2005 Nickel?

Once you’ve assessed your coins’ value, the next question is where to sell them online with ease. I’ve gathered information on the top selling sites, including their features, strengths, and weaknesses.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons) 

 

2005 Nickel Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 2005 Nickel

1. What is the error on a 2005 Jefferson nickel?

The most famous error is the 2005-D Speared Bison variety. A damaged die created a raised line across the buffalo’s back that resembles a spear. This die gouge runs diagonally from the bison’s midsection upward.

Another notable error is the 2005-P Satin Finish Bison DDO FS-101, which shows doubled die characteristics on Jefferson’s portrait and inscriptions. These errors command significant premiums over regular strikes.

2. Is the 2005 Jefferson Nickel worth anything?

Yes, 2005 nickels can be valuable depending on condition and variety. Regular circulation strikes in good condition start around $0.14 to $1.00.

High-grade mint state examples range from $11.45 to $25.00 on average. Error varieties command much higher prices.

The 2005-D Speared Bison in MS-66 sold for $2,650. Special strike and proof versions also bring premium prices, especially in top grades.

3. What are the different back styles of the 2005 Jefferson nickel?

The 2005 nickel features two distinct reverse designs. The American Bison design by Jamie Franki shows a buffalo in right-facing profile with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” below.

The Ocean in View design by Joe Fitzgerald depicts the Pacific coastline with trees and waves, featuring the inscription “Ocean in View! O! The joy!”

Both designs commemorate different stages of the Lewis and Clark expedition as part of the Westward Journey series.