Hey fellow collectors! I recently came into possession of a 1949-D Jefferson nickel that I believe could be a Full Steps. After doing some research and checking out the grading scale, I see that this coin could fetch a decent price if graded correctly. The details are super clear, and I can definitely see the steps on the Monticello, but I’m unsure if it truly qualifies as Full Steps or just looks like it.
I’m really curious about everyone’s experience selling these kinds of nickels. If you’ve successfully sold a Full Steps nickel, what kind of prices did you manage to get? And where did you sell it—eBay, a local coin shop, or perhaps at an auction? Any tips on how to present the coin for the best visual appeal?
I’m particularly interested in how much the grading plays a role in the selling process. Did having it graded boost your sale price significantly? Can’t wait to hear all your stories and insights!
Hey CoinWhisperer82! I’ve sold a couple of Full Steps nickels in the past, and I can definitely share my experiences. I had a 1950-D that graded out at MS67 FS, and I sold it on eBay for around $600. The key for me was making sure to highlight the steps in the listing photos—particularly because they’re the defining feature for Full Steps. I also provided close-up shots of the coin in its holder to give potential buyers a good look at the grade.
- Grading does have a huge impact on the price.
- Consider getting it graded by a service like PCGS or NGC.
- Local coin shops may offer decent prices, but eBay typically brings in more competitive bids.
Also, if your nickel has clear steps, I’d definitely recommend sending it to get it graded. It’ll only add value. Good luck, and I can’t wait to see how your sale goes!
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Thanks for sharing, NickelNinja! Your tips on photography are super useful! I’ve been thinking about getting it graded. How much did it cost you, if you don’t mind sharing?
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I’ve never sold a Full Steps nickel myself, @CoinWhisperer82, but I have a few in my collection. The rarest I own is a 1949-S that I might be tempted to sell. From what I’ve seen, these coins can go for quite a bit if well-graded. I’ve noticed that auctions tend to bring out the best prices, as collectors often bid against each other. I’d love to know what you decide to do with your nickel!
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Good question! Grading fees can vary. For instance, PCGS charges around $30 for standard service, plus you’ll want to factor in shipping. If it’s a special submission, it could go up pretty fast. Just be sure to check their website for the latest info. If your coin is valued highly enough, it can be worth the investment!
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I’ve had mixed results selling Full Steps nickels on eBay. Sometimes you find great buyers; other times, it’s a real struggle. My top-selling coin was a 1940 in MS65 FS condition that went for $350. I always recommend providing detailed descriptions to engage potential buyers. Using keywords like ‘Full Steps’ and ‘Rare’ in your title can help it stand out in searches! I also like to offer free shipping—it tends to attract more buyers.
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Thanks for the great tips, Coin_Ranger! I’ll definitely keep the keywords in mind. Free shipping sounds like a smart strategy to compel buyers a little more. Have you found that certain times of the year yield better sales?
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For sure! I’ve noticed that around the holidays tends to be the best. People are looking for collectible gifts, and you can get some fierce bidding wars going on. Just remember to time your listings so they start ending during peak moments. I’ve had some luck listing items right before New Year’s. Good luck with your nickel!
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In my experience with selling various graded coins, I’ve found that once you have the coin certified, its marketability increases tremendously. If you’re considering grading, @CoinWhisperer82, ensure that the coin is well-preserved and cleaned properly before submission. Trust me, even minor issues can downgrade the grade significantly, leading to a lower sale price. Overall, a well-graded coin always fetches a better return.
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Great reminder, CoinCollectingGeek! I’ll definitely be careful about cleaning. Is there any technique you would recommend for ensuring the coin stays in top condition?
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Absolutely! It’s crucial to avoid any harsh cleaning agents. Stick to things like wooden toothpicks for dirt accumulation and soft cloths to gently wipe off grime. Always handle coins with cotton gloves to prevent oils from your fingers marking the surface. If it has stubborn tarnish, dipping in distilled water can help, but again, do it with care! Good luck with your nickel!
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Wow, I never thought about using wooden toothpicks! Thanks for that tip, CoinCollectingGeek! I’ve been hesitant to clean a few of my coins. Is there a specific type of cloth you recommend for the soft wiping?
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Definitely! I recommend using a microfiber cloth as they are soft and won’t scratch the coin’s surface. Just make sure it’s fresh and clean. Any residue or dirt trapped in the cloth can lead to scratches! And remember, less is more—be gentle.
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