2005-S Jefferson Nickel Ocean in View / Westward Journey Series
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic) · United States Mint, San Francisco branch (indicated by the S mint mark)
Pattern: Westward Journey Nickel Series - Ocean in View design
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic)
Maker
United States Mint, San Francisco branch (indicated by the S mint mark)
Material
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This item contains no silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.2mm; Weight: 5.0 grams; Thickness: 1.95mm.
Description
This 2005-S nickel is part of the Westward Journey Series. It features a unique one-year-only obverse portrait of Thomas Jefferson based on a 1789 Rembrandt Peale painting. The Proof strike is intended for collectors rather than general circulation, characterized by its high-contrast finish.
Key Features
Right-facing Jefferson portrait, S mint mark, script Liberty based on Jefferson's own handwriting.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This item contains no silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Proof finish with frosted relief and mirror-like fields. Features a right-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson and the word Liberty in handwriting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark S (San Francisco), year 2005, Liberty, and In God We Trust.
Construction Details
Modern machine-struck die-pressed coinage; Proof strike produced using specially polished dies and planchets.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency of the United States with a face value of Five Cents.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard reeded or smooth edge for coinage (nickels feature a smooth edge).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-precision computer-engraved dies; Proof quality involves multiple strikes for maximum detail.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic 2005 obverse design and S mint mark placement; however, the dark surface suggests environmental damage or artificial toning rather than silver patina.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; San Francisco Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era (2004-2006 Westward Journey commemorative period).
Age Estimate
Dated 2005; exactly 19 years old as of current date.
Cultural Significance
Commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Louisiana Purchase.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Post-Mint Damage; visible heavy toning, surface scratches, and environmental residue. Generally graded as 'F' or 'VF' details due to heavy surface wear.
Value Estimate
$0.05 to $2.00; while Proofs have higher initial value, this specimen's poor condition and lack of silver content limit its value to face or nominal collector value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic items with abrasives; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
2004 Peace Medal Nickel, 2004 Keelboat Nickel, 2005 American Bison Nickel.
Interesting Facts
2005 was the only year Jefferson faced right on the nickel; by 2006, the design changed to a forward-facing portrait.