Obtained a 1950-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 5FS from Heritage 2011 FUN Sale for $1,093 and an upgrade of 111 registry points over the MS67

This auction was won using a max bid of $2,070.

1950-D 5C MS67 Five Full Steps NGC. Census: 19 in 67 Five Full Steps, 0 finer (11/10).

Auction: 2011 January Tampa FUN Signature & Platinum Night US Coin Auction #1151 Lot 4505.

Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions

Auction Ended On: Jan 5, 2011

Coin Description:

Very pretty streaky almond patina graces the exceptionally clean surfaces of this conditionally rare full step premium gem key date coin. An above average strike is evidenced by both 5FS and full details on Monticello and Jefferson's hair. Some very minor planchet roughness remains in the usual areas on the jaw and shoulder, but the fields are absolutely pristine. The luster seems rather mundane but does not at all detract from the eye appeal of this beautiful coin.

Comments:

The lowest mintage of the series was widely hoarded and Bowers remarks "Although Mint State coins are very common today, most are rather dull or uninspiring in appearance, often struck from worn dies and lackluster. For a sparkling gem with sharp steps the adjective scarce can truly be applied." This coin represents my 6th attempt to fill this slot in my registry set. The first 5 attempts were various MS67 coins. Most were either lack luster, poorly struck, or down right ugly. The 1950-D may not be difficult to find in mint state grades, but obtaining a specimen that fits in a high ranking registry set is a difficult chase indeed. At the outset of my endeavor to complete the Jefferson series, I knew I would need fantastic coin to represent the "so called" key date of the series. After 5 failed attempts to fill the slot, I began to consider the ever elusive 1950-D, my white whale. Well in this story, Ahab (Lehigh) wins. I present the "White Whale" of the Atlantic City Set of Jefferson Nickels.