2005 Bison nickel value

This nickel is part of the Westward Journey series. The back shows an American bison, and the front shows Jefferson facing right, with "Liberty" in his handwriting.

How to tell

Check the coin in this order:

1. Confirm the design. If Jefferson faces left and the back shows Monticello, you have a different nickel. See the Jefferson Monticello nickel guide.
2. Check the year. You want 2005.
3. Find the mint mark. A mint mark is a small letter showing which mint made the coin. A "P" means Philadelphia and a "D" means Denver. Only the Denver coin can have the error.
4. Look at the bison's back. On a Denver coin, look for a line running through the bison's back like a spear. A magnifying glass helps.

Both the 2005-P and the 2005-D were made in huge numbers, so neither is rare. A 2005 bison nickel with no line through the bison is a common coin. Spend it or keep it.

The speared bison error

The speared bison comes from a gouge in the stamp (the die) that strikes the coin. The gouge leaves a raised line on every coin the die strikes, and that line runs through the bison's back.

The value above is for a coin that was never used as money. A worn one usually sells for less, so condition matters more on this coin than on a common nickel.

Be careful with look-alikes. Scratches, dents and marks from rough handling can cross the bison too. A real die gouge is raised, part of the coin as it was struck. Damage after minting usually looks uneven and may also mark other parts of the coin. If you are unsure, a dealer or a professional grading service can examine the coin.

Condition

Wear lowers a coin's value. A nickel that has passed through many hands loses detail on the bison and on Jefferson's portrait, while an uncirculated coin keeps its sharp detail.

Do not clean a coin you think might be valuable. Rubbing, polishing or using chemicals leaves marks and lowers its value. Hold it by the edges and store it somewhere dry.