The Westward Nickel Collection began in 2004 in commemoration of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. The President enacted to modify the Jefferson nickel to reflect images reminiscent of the historic expedition into the Louisiana Territory. The U.S. Mintapos;s Westward Journey Nickel Series began in 2004 with the Peace Medal nickel and followed by the Keelboatnickel. In 2005 the American Bison and the Ocean in View nickels were the next 2 released in the series. As part of the 2005 release#44; the U.S. changed the image of Thomas Jefferson. The new coin features the right side of Jeffersonapos;s face#44; instead of the frontal view seen for 67 years. Also#44; the word Liberty is shown#44; engraved in Jeffersonapos;s own handwriting. Composition is copper-nickel the diameter are 21.2 mm with a grade of uncirculated.
