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2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel Value

2005 · · 75% copper, 25% nickel

Value by Grade

GradeEst. Value
Poor (P-1)$5.00
Good (G-4)$15.00
Fine (F-12)$50.00
Uncirculated (MS-63)$200.00
Gem (MS-65)$600.00
Perfect (MS-70)$3,000

Key Dates & Rare Varieties

Date/VarietyWhy It's SpecialValue Range
2005-P Speared BisonPhiladelphia Mint die gouge — strong spear variety$50–$500
2005-D Speared BisonDenver Mint version — also collectible$30–$300
2005-P NormalStandard die without error for comparison$0.05–$2
2005-D NormalStandard Denver die without error$0.05–$2

Coin Specifications

Designer
Felix Schlag / Jamie Franki
Years
2005
Denomination
Composition
75% copper, 25% nickel
Diameter
21.2 mm
Weight
5 g

Quick Value

$50.00
Average circulated (Fine grade)

2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel: History & Background

The 2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel is a die gouge error found on the American Bison reverse of the 2005 Westward Journey nickel series. A prominent raised line runs diagonally through the bison's midsection, giving the appearance that the animal has been pierced by a spear. The error was caused by a deep scratch or gouge on the die that transferred as a raised line onto the struck coins. Found on coins from both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, the Speared Bison variety quickly became one of the most popular modern error coins among collectors. The variety is most dramatic on early die-state coins where the gouge is sharpest and most prominent.

How to Grade a 2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel

Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →

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