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The Certified 2005-S Jefferson Nickel “Ocean in View” graded PF70 by NGC represents a perfect Proof example of one of the most historically meaningful and artistically celebrated modern nickels. Part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series, this coin commemorates the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition, with the reverse design honoring their moment of triumph upon reaching the Pacific Ocean. The PF70 grade is the highest possible on the Sheldon scale, indicating a flawless coin under 5x magnification, with pristine surfaces, perfect strike, and bold contrast typical of a deep cameo Proof. NGC’s certification ensures its perfect status and authenticity, making it a desirable modern issue for collectors of U.S. coinage and American history alike.
The Westward Journey Nickel Series was initiated by the United States Mint in 2004 to honor the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and to redesign the nickel for the first time in decades. This series consisted of four distinct reverse designs issued over two years, along with a one-year-only obverse portrait of Jefferson in 2005. The “Ocean in View” nickel was the second of the 2005 designs, and its title references a powerful entry from William Clark’s journal: “Ocean in view! O! The joy,” a phrase reflecting the explorers’ excitement upon reaching the Pacific Ocean after a grueling journey across the American continent.
The obverse of the coin features a new forward-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson by sculptor Joe Fitzgerald, a departure from the long-standing left-facing profile by Felix Schlag. Jefferson’s image on this coin is intimate and engaging, with “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the left, “LIBERTY” in script to the right, and the date “2005” below. On a Proof 70 specimen, the devices are deeply frosted and perfectly struck, rising above jet-black mirrored fields with no flaws, haze, or breaks in contrast. The sharpness of the portrait and its ultra-clean presentation demonstrate the U.S. Mint’s modern proofing mastery.
The reverse of the 2005-S “Ocean in View” nickel was designed by engraver Joe Fitzgerald and sculpted by Donna Weaver. It depicts a rugged Pacific coastline with tall cliffs and evergreen trees, capturing the dramatic moment when the expedition finally reached the western sea. The phrase “Ocean in view! O! The joy” is inscribed along the upper edge, while “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “FIVE CENTS,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” round out the design. In PF70 quality, every wave and line in the landscape is rendered with razor-sharp clarity, and the mirrored finish of the sky contrasts perfectly with the frosted cliffs and trees, giving the scene exceptional depth and realism.
This coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint, as indicated by the “S” mintmark, and only issued in proof format for inclusion in official U.S. Mint Proof Sets. These coins were never released for circulation and were specially made for collectors using polished dies and carefully prepared planchets. As a result, the “S” mint Proof nickels of the Westward Journey Series are known for their outstanding finish and visual appeal. However, not all Proofs are created equal, and the PF70 grade marks this example as a perfect strike, distinguishing it from the far more common PF69 and lower examples.
NGC’s certification of PF70 ensures that this coin is flawless under magnification, with no post-production imperfections, hairlines, or contact marks of any kind. Their grading process includes review under magnification, light evaluation, and comparison to strict photographic and condition standards. A PF70 coin represents the ultimate expression of the U.S. Mint’s Proof craftsmanship and is highly sought after by modern coin collectors, registry set participants, and Jefferson nickel enthusiasts alike. The coin is securely encapsulated in NGC’s tamper-evident holder, which provides both physical protection and trusted grade attribution.
Though the 2005-S “Ocean in View” nickel was produced in the millions for collectors, PF70 examples account for only a fraction of the total population. Many coins that appear flawless to the naked eye may have minute imperfections that drop them to PF69. Therefore, a certified PF70 carries a premium for its perfection and desirability among condition-sensitive buyers. Additionally, the Westward Journey nickels remain popular for their historical depth and educational value, as they connect directly to one of the most pivotal events in early U.S. exploration and expansion.
The Jefferson nickel series, first introduced in 1938, underwent its first major redesign with the Westward Journey series. The “Ocean in View” design marked a turning point in modern numismatic design philosophy, showcasing a dynamic, narrative-driven image rather than a symbolic or architectural theme. Collectors regard this coin as an artistic success and a high point of early 21st-century U.S. coin design. For those assembling full sets of Jefferson nickels or modern U.S. Proof coins, a PF70 example of this coin is often an essential piece that enhances both completeness and quality.
In today’s collector market, PF70 examples of modern U.S. coins—especially those with significant historical or artistic value—are increasingly sought after for both collecting and investing. The “Ocean in View” nickel in PF70 has appeal across multiple collector types: modern issue collectors, Jefferson series specialists, history-themed coin collectors, and those building competitive NGC registry sets. Its perfect preservation, rich narrative, and commemorative significance make it an ideal specimen for both display and long-term storage.
The Certified 2005-S Jefferson Nickel “Ocean in View” graded PF70 by NGC is a flawless modern commemorative that captures the awe and achievement of the Lewis and Clark expedition’s final destination. With its innovative design, perfect strike, and NGC’s trusted certification, this coin stands as a pristine tribute to American exploration, artistry, and minting excellence. Whether part of a Jefferson nickel set, a U.S. modern proof collection, or held as a standalone historical artifact, this PF70 example represents the highest standard of modern U.S. numismatics.