The United States Mint has unveiled two new nickel designs as part of a series that will commemorate the Louisiana Purchase and Lewis and Clark's expedition.  The first of two new reverses on the 2004-dated Jefferson nickel features two hands clasped in friendship, one with a military uniform cuff symbolizing the American government, and the other with a silver band adorned with beads and a stylized American eagle representing the Native American community.  United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore:

"Well, this is a very historic day, to have a chance to unveil a new nickel after 65 years is very exciting for the United States Mint.  It's also very exciting to be commemorating two anniversaries that are very important to the United States.  So we're delighted - we are all heading along on the Lewis and Clark Expedition with them."

A depiction of Monticello will return to the back of the nickel in 2006.  The front, or obverse of the coin will still show an image of President Thomas Jefferson.

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