Hey fellow collectors! I recently got my hands on a roll of nickels from a local estate sale, and while inspecting them, I spotted one that seems to be a Full Steps variant. It’s a 1956 nickel, and honestly, it looks stunning! The steps are well-defined, but I’m still on the fence about its grading potential.
So, here’s my dilemma: should I send it in for grading? I’ve done some digging and found that Full Steps nickels can fetch a premium, especially in higher grades. However, I’m also wary that the grading process could impact its value and might not be worth the investment, considering the fees involved. Has anyone else faced this choice? Did you notice a significant change in your coin’s value after grading?
I’m excited to hear your thoughts! Have any of you had experience with grading coins with Full Steps? Do you think it’s worth it, or should I just keep it raw for now? Looking forward to your insights!
Congratulations on the find, @CoinCollector92! A 1956 Full Steps nickel can indeed be a real gem in any collection. From my experience, if the steps are well-defined and your coin is in high-grade condition (like MS 65 or better), then it’s definitely worth considering a grading submission. The Full Steps designation can add substantial value, often in the $300-$500 range, depending on the final grade. However, you should weigh the costs of grading against the potential increase in value. The fees can be hefty (around $30-$50 with the reputable services), and if the coin doesn’t meet the grading standards, you may end up disappointed.
Ultimately, if you’re leaning towards submitting it, just ensure it has a good chance at grading high.
Good luck!
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Thanks for the insight, @NickelNerd98! I really appreciate the pointers on the grading guides. It definitely sounds like a mix of risk and reward. I’m trying to weigh the costs in relation to the potential profit.
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Full Steps nickels are such a fun niche! In my collection, I had a 1952 with Full Steps that I got graded. It came back at MS 66, and to be honest, the grading process certainly gave it a significant boost in value from about $50 to around $200. However, bear in mind, not all grading experiences are the same, so it is important to ensure your coin genuinely has the attributes to warrant grading. If you feel it’s solid, go for it! Just be prepared for mixed feelings on the outcome—sometimes, it’s a roll of the dice.
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Hey @CoinCollector92! I’d suggest you keep it raw for now. The market for Full Steps nickels can really fluctuate, and while they are appealing, grading it can sometimes backfire. Just think, if you send it in and it comes back as MS 62, the excitement might not be worth the grading fee. In my opinion, if you can keep it in mint condition and wait, you might just find a buyer willing to pay a premium in the future.
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@CoinCollector92, you should definitely consider giving it a thorough clean and then looking for any fine details that might put it over the edge. Sometimes, what looks like Full Steps might have some minor issues upon close inspection. If you’re on the fence, maybe consult with a local coin expert? They could provide insights without diving into grading first, especially if this is your first high-stakes submission.
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My mantra is ‘never send a nickel to get graded.’ 
Seriously though, Full Steps are a bit tricky to grade accurately, and you might end up disappointed. But, hey, if you’ve got the funds and are willing to risk it, make sure to pick a trusted service. I’d avoid any shady grading companies!
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Great point, @CoinArtisan! I’ll definitely give it a closer look. I appreciate the advice and absolutely agree about seeking expert insight. I want to make sure I’m making an informed decision!
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Full Steps are rare! If it’s authentic, definitely get it graded. But be cautious of grading fees and turnaround times; they can be slow! Last time I sent coins in, it took over TWO MONTHS! I’d say go for it if you’re patient and it genuinely looks like a gem. Share a pic when you get a chance!
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Thanks, @RareFindsHunter! I’ll make sure to take my time and really assess its quality. I’ll also keep the community updated and share some photos once I make a decision!
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