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It’s not often that nickels become commemorative coins. Each case is unique and deserves ample attention. What is the Westward Journey Nickel Series 2005 worth and design? We shall find out.
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What Is the Westward Journey Nickel Series?
From 2004 to 2006, the U.S. Mint issued a special design to spice up its Jefferson nickels. A short commemorative run honoring the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis & Clark expedition.
This program included several issues:
2004: “Peace Medal” and “Keelboat”.
2005: “American bison”, “Ocean View”.
2006: An updated Jefferson design.
“The 2005 nickel designs follow Thomas Jefferson’s vision to explore the Great West.”
— Henrietta Holsman Fore
The U.S. Mint Official Website
Why the U.S. Mint Released the Series (History & Purpose)
The United States Mint's Westward Journey nickel series appeared to commemorate an event. Two bicentennials since the Louisiana Purchase and Lewis & Clark’s expedition.
On top of that, the 2005 Westward Journey nickel series also gave the Mint a chance to introduce a new Jefferson portrait more organically.
Fun fact: It’s not the only U.S. coin to celebrate a bicentennial. The 2009 penny celebrated Lincoln’s bicentennial.
2005 Nickel Designs: Buffalo & Ocean in View
Out of all designs in the Westward series, the “American bison” (buffalo) “Ocean View” was the most popular.
Both coins shared the same obverse, featuring Thomas Jefferson. This side shows the word “Liberty” in Jefferson’s actual handwriting, the date, and the mint mark. Joe Fitzgerald and Don Everhart worked on the obverse.
The reverse of the Buffalo issue features an American bison, the animal encountered during the Lewis & Clark expedition. Jamie Franki designed the reverse.
The reverse for the Ocean issue shows the Pacific Ocean coast, as likely seen during the Lewis & Clark expedition. Donna Weaver designed the reverse.
Value of Westward Journey Nickels (Circulated & Uncirculated)
The Westward Journey nickel series value depends mostly on its grading. If the coin was excellently preserved, then it is with than most other bits:
Type / Grade | Typical Value |
Circulated (2004–2006) | Face value ($0.10) |
Uncirculated (2004–2006) | $0.25 – $2 |
Proof Coins (2004–2006) | $6+ |
The proof version is the most valuable. Profs are rare and attract collectors with their scarcity and good looks.
Value of 2005 Westward Journey Nickel Sets
You can buy commemorative issues individually, but the U.S. Mint also offers whole sets you can buy.
The value of such sets differs, but mostly depends on the:
Coin type. Sets can include uncirculated or proof coins. Proof issues are more valuable by themselves, so their value is higher.
Premiums. If the set comes with an exclusive packaging, a certificate, or other accessories, it will be slightly pricier.
Most United States Mint Westward Journey nickel series sets are proof versions, and they are worth $15. Most sets feature an exclusive case and a certificate from the U.S. Mint.
Conclusion
200 years have passed since those events, but the people of America still remember them. Coins have become more than stores of value. They also help us remember our heritage.
The Coin ID Scanner app memorized a ton of valuable dollars, quarters, and pennies. The app has a database of over 150,000+ bits, and can identify them in seconds.
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