Jefferson Nickels Full Steps Decoded: The Novice Collector’s Essential Handbook

Your First Steps Into Jefferson Nickel Collecting

Welcome to the exciting world of Jefferson Nickels! If you’re just starting out, don’t worry – I’ve been where you are. After examining thousands of coins myself, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about Full Steps nickels in plain English.

What Makes a “Full Steps” Jefferson Nickel?

Decoding the Monticello Design

Turn any Jefferson nickel over and you’ll see Thomas Jefferson’s iconic Monticello home. Collectors pay special attention to the staircase – specifically whether you can see 5 or 6 completely separate steps with clear space between them. Think of it like a real staircase: each step needs its own breathing room!

The Grading Services’ Rules

Here’s where things get interesting. The big grading companies have slightly different rules:

• PCGS: Looks for at least 5 fully separated steps
• NGC: Distinguishes between 5-step (FS5) and 6-step (FS6) coins

Here’s how it works: A coin labeled MS65 FS by PCGS means it has 5+ good steps. NGC might call that same coin MS65 FS5 – or FS6 if all six steps are perfect.

How to Spot Full Steps Like a Pro

Tools You’ll Actually Use

• A quality magnifier (5x-10x loupe works great)
• Good lighting that you can angle
• Comparison photos of certified FS nickels

The Step-Counting Method That Works

Follow this beginner-friendly approach:

1. Tilt your nickel about 30 degrees under light
2. Start counting from the bottom step up
3. Check that each step stands completely alone – no connecting lines!

Avoiding Common Beginner Mistakes

When Damage Ruins the Party

Let me tell you about a coin that taught me a lesson. Even if most steps look great, any damage connecting two steps kills the FS designation. Check out this example:

https://us.v-cdn.net/6027503/uploads/editor/wn/2gkboo7cllp2.jpg

See how steps 2 and 3 on this 1968-S nickel are connected? That tiny bridge of metal means no Full Steps status – even though the other steps look textbook perfect.

The 5 vs. 6 Step Mystery Solved

New collectors often ask me: “Which steps count?” Here’s the breakdown:

Understanding Grading Differences

When the Experts Disagree

Here’s a trade secret: even grading services get it wrong sometimes. In my experience:

• Some FS-labeled coins actually have bridged steps
• The same 1964-D nickel might grade differently at PCGS vs NGC
• Resubmitting can sometimes change the result

My advice? Trust but verify – use what you’ve learned here to check their work.

Smart Collection Building for Newbies

Four Can’t-Miss Tips

1. Stick to PCGS/NGC certified coins
2. Always check the steps yourself before buying
3. Learn how strike quality changes year-to-year
4. Concentrate on 1940s-1960s dates for best results

Your Next Steps in Jefferson Nickel Collecting

Getting comfortable with Full Steps comes down to three things:

• Spotting true step separation
• Knowing how grading services differ
• Developing your own verification skills

Remember these key points:

• One bridged step = no Full Steps designation
• NGC rewards perfect 6-step coins extra
• Your loupe is your best friend

You’re now ready to start hunting for those perfect staircases. Happy collecting!

Related Resources

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