Hey everyone! So I recently stumbled upon a 1940 Jefferson Nickel in my change, and I can’t tell you how excited I was. As a beginner in the world of coin collecting, finding something like this felt like digging for treasure! But now, I’m curious about the condition of the coin, especially whether it has Full Steps.
I’ve done a bit of research and learned that Full Steps (FS) refers to the five distinct steps on the Monticello building on the reverse of the nickel. It’s said that only coins graded MS-65 or higher typically qualify for this designation. Based on what I see under my magnifying glass, I can make out some of the steps, but I’m not sure if they’re prominent enough to call it FS. I’ve noticed some wear around the edges, which has me worried that it might not make the cut.
What are your thoughts on grading for Full Steps? If anyone has tips on closely examining coins for this specific feature or has experience with grading Jefferson Nickels, I’d love to hear your insights! What should I look for exactly? Thanks in advance for any advice!
Congratulations on your find! It’s always thrilling to discover something like a 1940 Jefferson Nickel in your change. To determine if your coin has Full Steps, you’ll want to look closely at the reverse side of the nickel and examine the steps on the Monticello. Here are a few pointers to help you:
- The steps should be distinct and well-defined, with no major wear obscuring them.
- Check for any marks or scratches that may detract from the definition of the steps.
- Use a magnifying glass or a loupe to get a closer look; lighting is also crucial, so try examining it under different angles.
Also, keep in mind that most collectors look for coins graded
MS-65 or higher to qualify for FS—so grading plays a significant role in this. If you’re unsure, consider getting your coin graded by a professional service like
PCGS or
NGC. Happy collecting!
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Thanks for the tips, @CoinEnthusiast32! I didn’t think about how lighting could affect what I see. I’ll definitely check it out further with my loupe. How do I find a good grading service? Should I send it in or find a local shop?
Don’t worry too much about wear! It’s common for coins from that era to show some signs of aging. When I started out, I found a 1941 nickel with barely visible steps. It drove me nuts trying to figure out if I had FS too! I suggest using a good photo to post on here. Sometimes, the community can help discern details you might miss.
@CoinCurious89, if you decide to send it for grading, make sure to wrap it in a coin holder. Also, check for local coin shows—they often have grading services onsite.
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@CoinCurious89, I recommend checking out USMint for locations that might offer grading services. Also, many coin shops have trusted relationships with grading companies, which can give you access to discounts or easier processes. Always ask to see their grading results; it’s a good way to gauge their reliability!
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Also, keep an eye out for the die variety! Some 1940 Jefferson Nickels can have interesting marks that add value. I once found a variety that was worth way more than I expected! I would love to see a pic of yours.
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That’s interesting, @SilverDimes! I hadn’t considered die varieties. I’ll definitely look into it! And I’m planning to post some pictures later. I’m finding this community super helpful!
Honestly, just enjoy the process! Finding a cool coin is part of the fun. The grading and the details can come later, so don’t stress too much. I picked up a few nickels and just appreciated their history before diving into specifics. Plus, who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt?
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@CoinCollector101, you make a great point! I’m really just excited about the thrill of finding something. I’ll keep it fun and learn as I go!
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Step back and take your time. Coin collecting is a journey. Besides checking the steps, learn about the history of the coins, especially the war years. The 1940s were unique! You might find future treasures if you keep your eyes open. Enjoy!
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Thanks for the reminder, @OldSchoolCoiner! I do want to enjoy the journey. I’ll take some time to learn more about the era and the significance of these coins.
To determine if a 1940 Jefferson Nickel has “Full Steps,” follow these steps:
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Identify the Reverse Side: The “Full Steps” designation refers to the five vertical lines (steps) on Monticello, the miniature building depicted on the coin’s reverse.
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Examine the Steps Carefully: Use a good magnifying glass or a coin microscope to look closely at Monticello’s steps. The focus is on whether all five steps are well-defined and fully visible.
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Check for Clarity and Sharpness: A coin with “Full Steps” will have crisp, distinct lines that are clearly separated and not worn down or blurred.
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Look for Wear and Damage: Wear can diminish the visibility of the steps. A coin that has been circulated heavily may show some flattening, so compare it to reference images online for the specific condition.
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Condition Matters: The coin’s overall condition impacts its chances of being considered “Full Steps.” Higher-grade coins with minimal wear are more likely to qualify.
For a thorough comparison and additional tips, you can visit https://coin-identifier.com/. This site offers resources and images to help you confidently identify Full Steps on your coin.
You’ll need a quality true-light source and magnifying glasses. When I began collecting coins, I spent a few hundred bucks on various magnification glasses/lenses and lamps - please don’t make that mistake. For under 40 bucks, I recently bought a LCD Digital Coin Microscope 1000x, Coin Magnifier with 8 Adjustable LED Lights, PC View Compatible with Windows/MacBook, EDM4, 4.3-Inch viewing screen.