Grading Jefferson Nickels

It’s important to understand that grading is a refined art far more than an exact science. And few series feel the impact of small deviations in grades more than Jefferson Nickels. An early 1960s coin may grade MS65 one day and be worth $20 and on the next day, grade MS65FS and be worth $1,000+. Or the difference between MS66FS and MS67FS can be many multiples and it’s all about catching a grader on the right day, at the right time.

This inconsistency is shown through the various pictures on each coin page. Where you will notice, some MS66’s look better than a MS67 or some "Non-FS” looks more Full Steps than a “Yes Full Step”. If you want to play the grading game, plan on the expense of possibly sending a coin in multiple times - and still being disappointed. Also, be a realist with the coins you have in your hand. Sharp breaks in the steps will likely never qualify as FS. Faint breaks in the steps may qualify on tougher strike years, but will not qualify on sharp strike years, such as the 1943-D.

In my view, there are three paths to enjoy collecting Jeffersons. First path, never grade and stick with collecting great looking coins in a Dansco, or similar album. Second, buy already graded coins and work through the registry set providers to help organize and compete. Or lastly, play the raw to grade game but understand it’s all about embracing the inconsistency.