2004-P Westward Journey Nickel (Peace Medal Reverse)

This is a United States five-cent coin, specifically the 2004 'Peace Medal' design from the Westward Journey Nickel Series. The reverse (shown) features a reproduction of the reverse of the original Indian Peace Medals, which were commissioned by Thomas Jefferson to be distributed to American Indian tribal leaders during the Lewis and Clark expedition. The central motif displays two hands joined in a handshake: one representing an American officer in a uniform cuff and the other a Native American wearing a silver band. Above the hands is a crossed peace pipe (calumet) and a tomahawk, with the date '1803' commemorating the Louisiana Purchase. The inscriptions read 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'LOUISIANA PURCHASE', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'FIVE CENTS'. The coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. It appears to be in 'Circulated' to 'About Uncirculated' condition, showing slight surface wear on the high points of the handshake and lettering, with minor bag marks and abrasions consistent with light handling. The matte grey patina and lack of mirror-like finish suggest a standard business strike rather than a proof. The 'P' mint mark (on the obverse, not visible here) would denote manufacture at the Philadelphia Mint.