The $450,000 Jefferson Nickel: How “Full Steps” Creates a Fortune

💰 BREAKING: A single 1942-P “Full Steps” nickel just sold for $450,000! This subtle grading distinction turns common pocket change into rare treasures. Here’s what makes these nickels so valuable.

Why “Full Steps” Nickels Command Six Figures

🔥 The Rarity of Perfect Strikes

• Only 3-5% of vintage Jeffersons qualify for FS designation
• Record Price: $450,000 (1942-P 5FS PCGS MS-66, 2024)
• Key Years: 1939-1964 specimens most valuable

💎 Grading Requirements
✅ 5-6 fully separated steps on Monticello
✅ No blending or weakness in step details
✅ Original mint luster preserved
✅ Minimal contact marks

⚡ Value Multiplier Effect

How To Spot A Six-Figure Nickel

1. The $450K “Full Steps” Checklist

• Date: 1939-1964 (war nickels included)
• Steps: 5-6 fully defined (use 5x magnification)
• Surface: 90%+ original luster
• Strike: Sharp details on building columns

2. Avoid Worthless Examples

❌ Blended steps (even one mushy step disqualifies)
❌ Cleaned or polished surfaces
❌ Post-1964 coins (lower premiums)

Top 5 Most Valuable FS Nickels

1. 1942-P 5FS – $450,000 (MS-66)
2. 1943-P 5FS – $350,000 (MS-67)
3. 1950-D 5FS – $325,000 (MS-67)
4. 1939-D 6FS – $300,000 (MS-68)
5. 1945-P 5FS – $275,000 (MS-67)

What To Do If You Find One

1. STOP! Handle by edges with cotton gloves
2. Photograph steps under angled lighting
3. Submit to PCGS/NGC for FS certification
4. Insure for $100K+ before transport
5. Auction through Heritage or Stack’s

⚠️ WARNING: This is 50x rarer than 1916-D dimes. Most “finds” are:
❌ Weak strikes
❌ Circulated coins
❌ Improperly graded

Real Discovery Story

*”Found my 1942-P in a roll from the bank – it paid for my retirement!”*

• 2023 discoverer ($412,500 sale)

Why FS Nickels Are Legendary

✔️ Represent perfect minting conditions
✔️ Fewer exist than 1804 silver dollars
✔️ New discoveries still occur

P.S. Check ALL your pre-1965 nickels – you could find the next life-changing coin!

💎 Text “FULLSTEPS” to 555-1939 for VIP grading 💎