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lehigh96

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Journal Entries posted by lehigh96

  1. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1938-D Jefferson Nickel from Heritage on 7/13/2010 for $230. This coin replaced the MS67 (no FS) in my registry set.
    I won the coin with a maximum bid of $356
    Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Sunday Internet Coin Auction #210072 Lot #22053
    Description: 1938-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 5FS
    Orange and blue-violet centers yield to rainbow bands of cherry red, mint green, and sunfire yellow that peek out from underneath sandy peripheries. Some abrasions on Jeff's jawline and collar limit the grade but the eye appeal is off the charts for this boldly impressed full step gem.
    Comments:
    This is the quintessential Jefferson Type Coin, first year of issue, full steps, fully detailed including hair and all windows and doors on Monticello. The color and luster are outstanding and it is surprising that the coin was not given a star. The Heritage photo made the coin appear much more orange than it really is in hand. The peripheries are a sandy orange color which is common for album toned coins of the series.

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  2. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1938-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 5FS from drbobcoins (E-Bay seller) for $699.50 and 1707 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $821.00
    1938-D 5C MS67 5FS: NGC Census: (8/0). PCGS Population (32/0) (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: drbobcoins
    E-Bay Listing: 120859876122
    Ended: Feb 20, 201217:10:42 PST
    Coin Description:
    The coin is blanketed on both sides by a glowing golden patina and stunning luster resulting in magnificent eye appeal. An exacting strike yields five full steps for this top pop coin that has only a few minor imperfections.
    Comments:
    The 1938-D is plentiful in MS67 and with even golden toning. What separates this coin from the pack is the fact that the steps are full. One of only 8 coins graded MS67 5FS by NGC and PCGS has only graded another 32 (2/2012). This coin replaces a toned MS66 5FS that is impressive in its own right. To my knowledge, no collector outside of the top 5 in the registry has a 1938-D MS67 5FS in their collection attesting to its rarity. The majority of these coins are PCGS graded and reside in strong hands in the PCGS registry.

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  3. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1938-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from deadkey (E-Bay seller) for $99 and 251 registry points for upgrading from an MS66.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $125.
    1938-S JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS67
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: deadkey
    E-Bay Listing: 180620523504
    Ended: Feb 09, 201107:55:08 PST
    Coin Description:
    Light golden toning adorns both sides of this lustrous well struck premium gem. Despite the LDS evidenced by some die wear and a prominent die crack in Jefferson's hair, this coin is not short on eye appeal and has a radiant appearance in hand.
    Comments:
    This coin replaces what was a very attractive PQ MS66 example. Despite the fact that there are 280 MS67 1938-S certified Jefferson Nickels, it took me 2 years to find one that was better in quality than my MS66. And while this coin is a solid MS67, it is almost indistinguishable in quality from my MS66.
    On the fortunate side, I only paid $99 for this coin which is only $42 more than I paid for the MS66 it replaced. I could have tried to upgrade my MS66 through resubmission, but unless it upgraded on the first try, it would have been a losing proposition financially.

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  4. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1938-S Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 from Teletrade Auction 3191 for $150 and 37 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $275.
    1938-S 5C MS66: NGC Census: (507/255). PCGS Population (678/25) (11/11).
    Auction: 3191 Lot #1249
    Seller: Teletrade
    Auction Ended On: December 18, 2011
    Coin Description:
    Both sides of this minimally abraded premium gem are enveloped by a stunningly beautiful patina of lemon-lime, ice blue, lilac, and bright gold. In addition, the strike is hammered and the luster is shimmering.
    Comments:
    What holds this coin back from MS67 is beyond me. This is both an upgrade candidate and a crossover candidate to NGC. It is almost a certainty that this coin would grade MS67 by NGC and the star designation is also a "no brainer". I have had so much trouble with the 1938-S that the addition of this coin to my collection gives me much relief.
    My first two coins that held this spot were both very attractive untoned MS66 NGC examples. In February 2011, I finally was able to capture an MS67 example which now resides in my duplicates collection. Unfortunately that coin lacked the flare and eye appeal that I expect for my collection and quite honestly was overgraded despite the fact that it resided in an NGC 3 generation holder. When I located this coin in a Teletrade auction the week before Christmas, I knew my search was over. I placed an extremely strong bid of 5X PCGS price guide and prayed that it would hold up. To my surprise, it sold for less than 3X and the coin was mine. I would like to give a shout out to jonthecoinjunky who was the consignor of this coin and currently holds the 35th spot in the registry. Many thanks Jon, I know it was hard to let go of such a beautiful coin.
    This is not the first time that I have replaced a higher graded coin with a lower graded coin in my registry collection. And although I dropped from 288 points to 37 points, I firmly believe that when I cross the coin to NGC, it will come back with either an MS66+* or MS67* grade yielding 204 or 605 points respectively. Either way, this is by far the most attractive 1938-S Jefferson that I have ever seen and is a permanent resident in my registry collection.

  5. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1939 Rev of 38 Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 from a Heritage 2011 Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131119 for $40 and 45 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $80.
    1939 Rev of 38 5C MS66: NGC Census: (147/398). PCGS Population (218/27) (5/11).
    Auction: Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131119 Lot #20067
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: May 8, 2011
    Coin Description: A superb example of the date/mm with outstanding luster, and exacting strike, as well as a classic look of a premium gem mint state nickel with minimal toning. The two small marks on the jaw and coat collar preclude the MS67 grade by PCGS.
    Comments: It is this collector's opinion that this coin deserves an MS67 grade and that if it resided in NGC plastic, that is exactly what it would have. I must confess that I have cheated with regards to this issue in my registry collection. The coin that resides in the slot is actually a Rev of 40 but was graded before the two different reverses were recognized by the TPG's therefore is listed in the NGC database as a Rev of 38. And although I freely admit that the coin in my registry set is a fraud, I felt so guilty that I felt compelled to purchase an actual Rev of 38 for my collection.
    I have not added this coin to my registry set because I plan to send the coin for crossover grade to NGC in 2012. Currently it resides in my duplicates collection which is ranked 17th and is only 46% complete. It is possible that by the time I have completed my primary collection, my duplicate collection will also be in the top 10 of the registry.

  6. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1939 Reverse of 38 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from drbobcoins (E-Bay seller) for $133.40 and 527 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $148.00
    1939 Reverse of 38 5C MS67: NGC Census: 10/0 (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: drbobcoins
    E-Bay Listing: 120860351857
    Ended: Feb 22, 201217:02:04 PST
    Coin Description:
    A smooth, clean, lustrous coin with light champagne toning on both sides. A decent strike and some moderate die wear can be seen as well.
    Comments:
    This coin lifts a great weight off my numismatic shoulders. A little known secret in the Jefferson Nickel world is that the TPGs did not always recognize the difference between the Reverse of 38 and Reverse of 40 for the 1939 Nickels. In the beginning, they were all simply graded as 1939 Jefferson Nickels from their respective mints. The result is that the coins graded in the early years of the TPGs will not have a reverse attribution and will fit into the 1939 Reverse of 38 slot in the registry even though they might have a reverse of 40.
    I used this little known fact to fill my 1939 Reverse of 38 slot with a coin in an old no line fattie NGC holder despite the fact that the coin was a Reverse of 40. And although I admitted this plainly in my description, it was still cheating. I even tried to comfort myself with the fact that the fraud coin had a RADAR for a certification number, 100070-001, which made it very cool. I will rest much easier now that this slot has been properly filled with an actual top pop Reverse of 38.

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  7. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1939 Rev of 40 Jefferson Nickel from Heritage Rare Coins for $99. This coin will not compete in my registry collection.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $135.
    1939 5C Reverse of 1940 MS66 Full Steps NGC. NGC Census: (28/9). PCGS Population (107/14).
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Tuesday Internet Coin Auction #210111 Lot #20677
    Auction Ended On: Nov 2, 2010
    Coin Description:
    Delicate grey-gold patina rests over smooth well struck lustrous surfaces. A few significant marks including one on Jefferson's cheek limit the grade and the steps are indisputable and grade 6-5-5-6 by the quarterstep method. A curious luster effect exists in fields that seems to frame the devices.
    Comments:
    This coin will not be part of my registry collection but I purchased it for two primary reasons. The first reason is that the 1939 Rev of 40 nickels are much more scarce in full steps than the books would have you believe. The book states that 1 in 5 (20%) will have 5FS, yet the population reports support that the actual percentage is closer to 7%. I believe that this example is a PQ representative for the grade and would be a fine example if I ever decide to assemble a full step only collection.
    The second reason for purchasing this coin is related to the luster effect that I mentioned in my description of the coin. Nagengast spoke of a "halo effect" in THE JEFFERSON NICKEL ANALYST. Nagengast writes:
    "A curious luster contrast is frequently encountered on San Francisco minted Jefferson Nickels through 1954. This luster contrast is circular in nature, and is apparently the result of uneven die wear or die polishing or even a combination of the two. Often heavy metal flow lines are present, especially around the letters and devices. The "halo effect" is especially common on 1939 through 1941 issues."
    I own several San Francisco minted nickels that display the "halo effect" including a 1941-S Large S, but this coin which displays the same "halo effect" was minted in Philadelphia. And while I have seen the effect on before on "P" mint coins, it has never been this pronounced.

  8. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1939-S Jefferson Nickel Reverse of 40 NGC MS66 from Heritage Rare Coins for $517.50 and 98 registry points.
    My max bid on this coin was the same as the final price: $517.50
    1939-S Rev of 40 5C MS66: NGC Census: (3/0). PCGS Population (14/1) (6/12).
    Auction: 2012 May 30- June 3 US Coins Signature Auction- Long Beach #1171 Lot #7949
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coins
    Auction Ended On: Jun 2, 2012
    Description:
    Boldly impressed and very clean for the assigned grade. Slight weakness under the third pillar precludes a full step designation but is not indicative of a weak strike. The hair detail is complete, Monticello is almost complete, and there are no remnant planchet flaws. Gorgeous mellow orange toning is found on the peripheries of both sides and the coruscating luster gives this coin off the charts eye appeal.
    Comments:
    For those that believe in TPG gradeflation, this coin is anecdotal evidence to the contrary. The surfaces of this coin are better than most of the MS67s in my collection and the strike, luster, and eye appeal all superlative as well. If ever there we an example of a Premium Quality coin for the assigned grade, this is it. Despite the fact that this coin just misses the full step designation, it has a better strike than most of the existing full step examples for the date/mm and there is no doubt that it is among one of the finest with regards to surfaces, luster, and eye appeal. This coin replaces an MS65 5FS example that had a far inferior strike, yet full steps. In the process, my upgrade from MS65 5FS to MS66 yields a drop of 45 registry points.

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  9. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1940-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 5FS from ddamer (E-Bay seller) for $87.95 and 135 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $103.00
    1940-D 5C MS67 5FS: NGC Census: (22/0). PCGS Population (106/0) (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: ddamer
    E-Bay Listing: 130651552669
    Ended: Feb 27, 2012 17:10:00 PST
    Coin Description:
    Stunning lavender, peach, and ice blue blanket both sides of this well struck premium gem. The 6th step is incomplete and the coin grades 6-5-5-6 by the quarter step method. There appears to be some roughness on Jeffs coat which is most likely the result of some pitting on the die.
    Comments:
    I actually purchased this coin with the intent of flipping it. From the E-Bay seller scans, it appeared to simply be a white roll fresh 1940-D MS67 5FS which is not particularly rare but a coin that I did not have in stock on my E-Bay store. In addition, my registry collection already included an MS67 6FS pedigreed to the famous Compradore collection.
    When I opened the package and saw the coin, I was floored. The toning was superb and the overall eye appeal was better than the example in my registry set. The problem that this coin presented was that technically, it was a downgrade given that it only has 5FS. One of the mini goals of my collection was that every coin minted during 1940 would have 6FS since they are so common for that year. However, the larger goal and theme of my collection is based on eye appeal for which this coin clearly was superior. I was having such a hard time determining which coin to include in my collection that I left it up to the members of the NGC forum (thread url listed below).
    The registry points were not really a consideration since I only lost 28 points by downgrading from the 6FS example to this 5FS coin. The results of that thread and the attached poll echoed what I already knew but was having trouble accepting, that this coin has superior eye appeal and deserves to be included in a registry collection based on eye appeal.

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  10. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1940-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 6FS from Heritage 2011 FUN Sale for $978 and an upgrade of 713 registry points over my MS67 5FS
    This auction was won using a max bid of $1,278.
    1940-S 5C MS67 Six Full Steps NGC. Census: 5 in 67 Six Full Steps, none finer (11/10).
    Auction: 2011 January Tampa FUN Signature & Platinum Night US Coin Auction #1151 Lot 4503.
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: Jan 5, 2011
    Coin Description:
    The obverse boasts an almost iridescent lavender caste over boldly impressed and stunningly lustrous surfaces. There are three severe die cracks on this coin which indicates that it is from a late die state. This may be the most well struck LDS Jefferson in existence and the strike would compete with most EDS coins as well. The eye appeal of this coin can't be understated. When viewed in hand, the coin commands the viewers attention in a mesmerizing way. An essentially untoned coin that forces the viewer to say out loud, WOW!
    Comments:
    Having acquired my 6 step 1940-D and 1940 in March 09 & July 09 respectively, I prepared for a long search to find an MS67 full step 1940-S. To my delight and surprise, I purchased an MS67 5FS that hit the market and was auctioned by Teletrade in August 2009 where I paid a scant $220 to obtain it. The PCGS collectors didn't want it, and nobody seemed willing to bid more than MS66 PCGS price guide. The large majority of my collection was obtained by paying substantial premiums. I considered the coin to be one of the few bargains for the following reason. The exact same coin was auction via Heritage in the 2008 January FUN Sale in Orlando where it realized a price of $1,150.
    At the time, I never even considered that I would upgrade from an MS67 5FS until the current offering appeared in the 2011 FUN Sale. When viewed side by side, the magnitude of this coin and the visual presence that is created by the strike and luster separates the quality of the two coins with just a casual glance. In essence this coin is unimprovable and with it's addition, my 1940 P-D-S set becomes a perfect uniform group of MS67 6FS coins.

  11. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1941-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from Teletrade Auction #3187 for $242 and 304 registry points.
    1941-S 5C MS67: NGC Census: (83/0). PCGS Population (1/0) (12/11).
    Auction: 3187 Lot #1745
    Seller: Teletrade
    Auction Ended On: December 11, 2011
    Coin Description:
    Remarkably clean surfaces are complimented by an alluring almond patina and full satin luster. Not the most attractive coin in the collection but it is very distinctive and technically deserving of the assigned grade.
    Comments:
    At first glance, this coin appears to be subpar when compared to other pre-war premium gem Jefferson Nickels. But as anyone who has ever scoured 41-S rolls in their search for the large S can attest, this coin is well struck and is a fantastic example for the date/mm. Remember, PCGS only has one coin certified at this grade and this one of only 83 NGC graded examples. Bowers reports that most mint state examples are weakly struck with unsatisfactory luster, dull and lifeless. Those words dont describe this example.
    And as nice as this coin is, it is relegated to my duplicate collection. With an NGC population of 9/11, my MS65 1941-S Large S occupies the slot in my registry collection despite the fact that it only garners 9 points. The Large S 1941-S is one of the coolest coins in the Jefferson series and deserves attention in the registry collection. And who knows, maybe one day NGC will wake up and recognize it for the important variety that it is and assign the appropriate registry points. And if they dont, and somebody happens to pass me in the registry, I have 295 registry points at my instant disposal.
    Sneaky, I know!

  12. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1942-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 from Teletrade Auction #2992 for $42. This coin will not compete in any of my registry sets.
    1942-D 5C MS66 NGC
    Teletrade Auction: 2292 Lot # 1348.
    Seller: Teletrade
    Auction Ended On: Sunday, Jan 9, 2011
    Coin Description:
    Intense bright gold patina envelops both sides of this extremely lustrous well struck premium gem. Fully detailed in both Jefferson's portrait as well as the features of Monticello. Only the 6th step is missing from a completely full strike.
    Comments:
    This coin resides in a Generation 3 NGC holder which means that it was graded sometime in 1988-89. This is an important piece of information because prior to February 16th, 2004, NGC did not recognize coins with 5 full steps. In order to receive a full step designation, the coin was required to have 6 full steps. And while it is obvious that this coin does not have 6 full steps, it is almost assured of getting a 5 full step designation. In addition, the coin is PQ for the assigned grade.
    The Numismedia Wholesale price for an MS66 1942-D is $58 which means that my buy price of $42 was already a good deal. But when you consider that this coin could easily end up in an MS66 5FS holder and most likely an MS66+ 5FS or MS67 5FS holder, there was really no choice but to purchase the coin.
    Many people will tell you to follow the mantra "buy the coin, not the holder." This coin is a very good example of what you can do when you follow that advice by applying both grading knowledge and an understanding of the TPG's historical practices.

  13. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1942-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from Heritage Auctions for $546.25 and 437 registry points.
    The auction was won using a bid of $750.
    Heritage Auctions
    2010 April-May Milwaukee, WI CSNS US Coin Auction #1139 Lot 1169
    Description:
    1942-D 5C MS67 Six Full Steps NGC. An exactingly struck Superb Gem, struck on the eve of the alloy changeover during World War II. Nickel-white surfaces show a mixture of overtones, rose, gold, and pale blue chief among them. Census: 13 in 67 Full Steps, 0 finer (3/10). (#74014)
    The Heritage photos of this coin are extremely poor. They are underexposed, the white balance is off, and the reverse is out of focus.
    Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised by a spectacular nickel when I opened the package. The steps are flawless, a quintessential example of a full step nickel. The coin has dove gray surfaces with hints of rose, a superb strike, immaculate preservation, and excellent luster.

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  14. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1942-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 5FS from Mt. Lassen Coins for $554 and 336 registry points.
    1942-S 5C MS67 5FS: NGC Census: (12/0). PCGS Population (9/0) (8/12).
    Seller: Mt. Lassen Coins
    Purchased: August 18, 2012
    Description:
    Nearing technical perfection, the only mark visible to the naked eye is the abrasion in the field to the right of the mintmark and the lamination error to the right of the third pillar. A superb strike shows full details save the center of the sixth step. Just a hint of champagne toning is splashed over bright white silver surfaces with remarkable luster. This coin has immense eye appeal and is well deserving of the assigned grade.
    Comments:
    While searching for a way to improve my registry war nickel set, I found myself in a quandary. Many of the coins are simply unimprovable without entering the realm of MS68 examples which are in very strong hands. Heritage has only auctioned a hand full of MS68 war nickels in the last five years and I have been outbid on several of them. In addition, every coin in my collection is either an MS68, MS67 full steps, or MS67* except one coin. That coin, you guessed it, is the 1942-S. The fact that my 1942-S was absolutely snubbed for a star designation is another story all together but the fact remains that my only realistic option to upgrade my collection was to send in my 1942-S for a star designation review or to obtain an MS67 5FS which carry a very scant NGC population of 12/0.
    During my search over the last year, I checked every auction site and major dealer that you can think of to no avail. So a few weeks ago I decided to google "1942-S 5FS Jefferson Nickel" and see what happened. Well what happened was that it led to one listed on the Mt. Lassen website for half of Numismedia Price Guide ($1,150) and hundreds less than the average Heritage auction price of $824 over the last 2 years. Needless to say, I bought that coin as fast as I possibly could. And to sweeten the deal, Mt Lassen coins had a promotion where they would send you a free uncirculated 1943-D Jefferson Nickel with any purchase of $50 or more but instead they sent me a nicely toned gem BU 1941-D with full steps though a small nick.
    The next step is to send my existing 1942-S back to NGC for star designation review to see which coin will represent the Atlantic City Set for the upcoming 2012 registry awards.

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  15. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1943/2-P Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from an E-Bay Seller (1913nickel) on 1/19/2012 for $1,500 and 2,197 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $2,000.
    1943/2-P NGC MS67: NGC Census: (7/1). PCGS Population (2/0) (1/12).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: 1913nickel
    E-Bay Listing: 280806005688
    Ended: Jan 19, 2012 15:33:04 PST
    Coin Description:
    Like many high grade war nickels, this coin displays the quintessential iridescent toning that is exclusive to the silver manganese alloy. When viewed directly, the toning appears to be shades or rich blue and green. When tilted into the light, vibrant peach, yellow, pink and lime green toning appear. A small patch of strong violet is found under the B in LIBERTY. The reverse displays rainbow toning at the rims while an original skin of almond coloration blankets the interior. A very clean & lustrous example yielding a very lofty grade. Finding an attractively toned high grade example of the 1943/2-P is a herculean task making this coin a permanent resident in my collection.
    FS-101, formerly FS-028. Another of the dual-hubbing errors that seemed to pop up during both World Wars at the Mint, this is technically a Doubled Die Obverse as well as an overdate. The lower curve of the underdigit 2 is readily apparent under a glass, and doubling is visible on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. According to Fivaz and Stanton, the reverse is also a tripled die.
    Comments:
    I purchased the coin from an E-Bay Seller who is an old timer who had no ability to properly image his coin. His listing contained a simple blurry scan of the slab. There was absolutely no way to evaluate the surfaces of the coin or the steps but in his description he claimed that the coin had 5 full steps but that he had submitted the coin for grading prior to 2/16/2004 which was the date that NGC started recognizing 5 Full Steps for Jefferson Nickels. He had the coin listed at the lower end of the retail price for a non-full step NGC MS67 and not surprisingly, he had no bids on his listing. After seeing the scan, I knew instantly that the blue areas on the obverse meant iridescent rainbow toning and that this coin was going to be very attractive in hand. Though leery of the seller's story about the steps, the NGC slab generation is an NGC 9 (circa 2001-2003) making it possible that he was telling the truth.
    Since the full step issue basically became a free roll, I placed a strong bid of $2,000 which was $500 higher than his asking price with the intention of submitting the coin for step designation review if I won the auction. I was the lone bidder and was not disappointed when I received this absolutely beautiful coin. Unfortunately, the steps while almost complete, have a distinct bridge between the 3rd & 5th steps under the 3rd pillar, leaving the coin with steps that grade 5-5-3-5 precluding the 5 Full Step designation.
    And while it is cruel that a coin of this magnitude would hit the market so soon after losing my job, I knew that I might not get another chance at an MS67 43/2-P any time soon. The last one sold by Heritage was 5 years ago in 2007. And a story this grand deserves a happy ending. I just sold my full step PCGS MS65 1943/2-P for a good price which almost covered the entire cost of adding this coin. The upgrade cost me $250. Isn't coin collecting great?
    Please view the attached photo below which shows the seller's slab scan as well as my photos of the obverse & reverse.

  16. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1944-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67+* from Heritage Auctions on 2/27/11 for $184 and 490 registry points upgrading from an MS67.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $345.
    1944-D NGC MS67+*: NGC Census: (1923/1). PCGS Population (95/0) (12/11).
    Auction: Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131109
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: Feb 27, 2011
    Coin Description: From a technical standpoint, this coin is finest coin in the entire collection. The surfaces are immaculate and as close to MS68 as an early Jefferson Nickel can come. A small distraction between the 4th and 5th steps is all that precludes a full step designation of this nickel with an exacting strike. Stunning luster and fantastic pastel shades of sunshine yellow and pink toning combine to give this coin a visually paralyzing effect on first time viewers.
    Comments: In all of my time collecting Jefferson Nickels, I have never encountered a coin that deserved a higher grade than this coin. Every MS68 Jefferson I have ever seen had MS67 surfaces with mind blowing toning that yielded the MS68 market grade. If ever a coin deserved a "+" grade, this is it. Unfortunately, I just have not been able to enter this in my primary registry set as it competes for the same slot as my monster Appalachian.
    I have been slacking a little on posting my journal entries as I obtain the coins, but better late than never I guess.

  17. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1944-P Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS67+ FS from Heritage 2012 February 2-5 US Coins Signature Auction- Long Beach #1167 for $5,750 and 1,486 registry points as part of a lot which included a complete set of PCGS graded war nickels.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $5,750.
    PCGS-Certified Complete 1942-1945 "War Nickel" Business Strike Set.... (Total: 11 coins) Lot # 3973
    1944-P 5C MS67 FS: NGC Census: (12/0). PCGS Population (7/0) (2/12).
    Auction: 2012 February 2-5 US Coins Signature Auction- Long Beach #1167
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: February 3, 2012
    Coin Description:
    This coin is the quintessential Jefferson War Nickel. Absolutely booming luster and a hammered strike combine with stunning eye appeal to drive this coin to an inevitable market grade of MS67+ FS. Iridescent blue/green toning transforms into vibrant hues of yellow, pink, and lime green when rotated under a light source. This toning scheme is the signature of the war nickel silver-manganese alloy and is the hall mark of a many a registry war nickel. Despite a shallow mark on the steps under the second pillar, the coin achieves the full step designation and the steps grade 6-5-5-5 by the quarter step method.
    Comments:
    The grade of this coin needs to be discussed both with respect to the number grade and the full step designation. First, it should be made clear that the surfaces of this coin while worthy of MS67 are not the reason this coin achieved an MS67+ grade. The chatter on the jawline is the result of remnant planchet flaws which do not affect the grade. However, there are several marks that are minor but noteworthy. The first is on the bottom edge of Jefferson's coat collar. The second is halfway up the second pillar of Monticello. And the third and most important is on the steps below the second pillar. It is this mark that seems to interrupt the steps at certain angles. The fact is that the mark is very shallow and while it does traverse the steps and is visible, PCGS determined that the disturbance did not interrupt the steps (lines) enough to preclude a full step designation. The decision of PCGS to award the + grade was related solely to the other elements of grading since the surfaces are not high end for the grade. However, it is visually evident that the luster, strike, and eye appeal of this coin are at the highest level possible for a Jefferson Nickel. The result is an accurate market grade of MS67+ FS.
    I was perusing the Heritage website in early January and found a PCGS-Certified Complete 1942-1945 "War Nickel" Business Strike Set.... (Total: 11 coins) listed in the 2012 February 2-5 US Coins Signature Auction- Long Beach Sale #1167. My first thought was that I had never seen a complete set of war nickels sold as one lot in a signature sale before so needless to say, I was intrigued. I opened the lot and saw 22 thumbnail slab photos and immediately felt overwhelmed so I proceeded to read the item Description shown below:
    PCGS-Certified Complete 1942-1945 "War Nickel" Business Strike Set. Includes: 1942-P Type Two MS66; 1942-S MS67; 1943-P MS67; 1943-D MS65 Full Steps; 1943-S MS66; 1944-P MS67+ Full Steps; 1944-D MS66; 1944-S MS65+; 1945-P MS66; 1945-D MS65; and 1945-S MS67. Many examples show gold, orange, or amber toning at the borders. Centers are almost universally silver. (#4016)
    As I read the grades of the coins I was not overly impressed. MS65 & MS66 war nickels are essentially widgets and I already have several MS67 1942-S's. I was ready to close the listing when I stumbled upon the 1944-P MS67+ FS. I thought to myself, What? No Way! The population of the 1944-P in MS67 is only 19/0 for both grading services. I know this because I own one. It didn't seem possible that a 1944-P MS67+ FS which is essentially a top pop registry coin could be buried in such a listing. I immediately scrolled down and opened the oversized photo which showed hints of rainbow toning. It was at that moment that I knew. Despite Heritage's cookie cutter photos, I knew this coin was going to be blazing with immense eye appeal.
    Unfortunately, I aslo knew that this coin would not escape the eyes of the PCGS registry collectors who are fanatical about improving their sets. I knew that this lot was going to cost a fortune. I reached deep and placed a proxy bid of $5,000 with the intention of not looking until the auction was complete. At the end of the auction, I felt sick to my stomach. I won the lot, but I was forced to pay the entire $5K + the 15% buyers premium. I had overbid and now I had overpaid. And while I now own the highest graded 1944-P full step Jefferson Nickel, I still have to deal with my own fiscal irresponsibility. It is my hope that I can sell all of the other coins in the lot as well as my other full step 1944-P through my E-Bay store and not incur too much of an incremental cost.
    When I refer to the quintessential war nickel with the distinctive toning that only appears on the silver-manganese alloy unique to war nickels, it is hard to describe in words. The toning is iridescent and appears very different when viewed from different angles and under different lighting conditions. When viewed outside of direct lighting, the toning appears as a hazy intermingled hue of deep blue & green. That same toning when tilted into a light source turns into gorgeous shades of pastel rainbow colors usually including yellow, pink, and lime green. I have included two photos below to show the contrast that this quintessential toning creates. Enjoy!

  18. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1944-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from greattoning on E-Bay for $573.90 and 282 registry points
    The auction was won using a gavelsnipe bid of $605 for the following E-Bay auction:
    greattoning
    Item number: 360247601423
    Item location: Boston, United States
    A war nickel with spectacular target toning. Both sides display concentric bands of gold, pink, sky blue, and lime green toning that radiate outwards from the center over lustrous well struck surfaces. Some minor marks exist and the only real distraction on the coin is a carbon spot on Jefferson's forehead. The two dramatic die cracks and weakness of the date and obverse lettering are evidence of a late die state. The 1944-S is one of the more difficult war nickels to locate with rainbow toning and this one falls into the monster category in that regard.

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  19. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1945-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS68 from David Lawrence Rare Coins for $1,400 and 527 registry points.
    The list price of the coin was $1,520 and my offer of $1,400 was accepted.
    1945-D 5C MS68: NGC Census: (3/0). PCGS Population (0/0) (5/12).
    Auction: 3267 Lot #1251
    Seller: David Lawrence Rare Coins
    Auction Ended On: March 26th, 2012
    Description:
    This magnificent nickel has nearly perfect surfaces as would be expected from the assigned grade. Breathtaking luster and a gorgeous pastel patina of pale yellow, apricot, lilac, and chartreuse blanket both sides. The steps are not full and the strike is rather mediocre, but the other elements of grading are satisfied at the highest level possible.
    Comments:
    The alluring nature of this coin simply cant be conveyed by words or images. It is a coin whose splendor must witnessed first hand to be truly appreciated. The quality of the surfaces is evident from the images but only when compared directly to an MS67 does the reason for the assigned grade become readily apparent. One of only three coins to be graded with the lofty grade of MS68 by NGC for the date/mm and only the second MS68 to be added to this collection.

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  20. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1945-P Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS65 FS from Heritage Rare Coins for $109 and it replaced a coin with the same grade in my PCGS registry set.
    The auction was won using a max bid of $110.
    Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Tuesday Internet Coin Auction #210063 Lot #24453
    Descripton: 1945-P Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS65 FS
    Since the coin was in a Tuesday Internet Only auction, there is no description listed by Heritage. The Heritage photos clearly showed the pale yellow patina and a razor sharp strike for the issue. However, the new photographic method employed by Heritage left the luster of the coin a mystery. My real concern was how prominent the gouges in Jefferson's coat would appear in hand.
    After receiving the coin which appeared to be a low end MS65 from the Heritage photos, I was greeted by a coin with superb gem strike, luster, and eye appeal. Only the surfaces were limiting the grade and even the marks on Jefferson's coat were less pronounced in hand. All in all this is a very attractive gem of probably the most difficult of the war nickel issues.
    There is the slightest blending of the 3rd & 4th steps under the second pillar. While PCGS will routinely award the FS designation to coins with steps like this, NGC is much more strict and I estimate that the coin would have a 50/50 shot at a 5FS designation from NGC.

  21. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1946 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from a Heritage Internet Only Auction for $184 and 272 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $713.
    1946 5C MS67 NGC. NGC Census: (8/0). PCGS Population (0/0) (1/11).
    Auction: Tuesday Internet Coin Auction #211014 Lot #26725
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: Jan 25, 2011
    Coin Description:
    A very lustrous premium gem that is dominated on both sides by a very attractive gray patina infused with shades of peach and lavender. Planchet flaws which are common for the issue exist both on the obverse jawline and collar as well as the reverse steps. An above average strike helps compliment the almost flawless fields and minimally abraded devices of this conditionally rare top pop coin.
    Comments:
    The Philadelphia minted 1946 Jefferson Nickel is one of the toughest in the series for registry collectors. There are no PCGS coins graded above MS66 and in MS66 the coin is not particularly scarce with 62 PCGS examples and 69 NGC examples. Most of these coins are lustrous but have eye appeal or surfaces problems. Finding a 1946 Jefferson that has the combination of surface preservation, luster, and eye appeal to warrant an NGC MS67 or PQ MS66 PCGS grade is a very rare find indeed.
    It is my belief that most collectors are slaves to the price guides. And the fact that Heritage has never offered a 1946 NGC MS67 at auction, left the other bidders paralyzed in their attempt to price this coin. One look at the price guides helps explain what I mean; they are blank in the MS67 grade. But seasoned collectors know that NGC coins can often be priced by applying a small premium to the PCGS Price Guide price for one grade lower which for the 1946 MS66 is $160. The price realized for this coin was $184 which supports my theory.
    So why did I bid $713 as my maximum bid? The answer is that I consider this coin one of the finest examples of this date/mm. In addition, the market availability of this coin is such that it could have been 5-10 years before another coin it's equal hit the market. Letting this coin slip away would have been a strategic disaster in my pursuit of the finest registry collection of Jefferson Nickels.

  22. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1946-D/Invert D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 from David Lawrence Rare Coins for $1705.00 and 9 registry points.
    The auction was won using a bid of $2000.
    David Lawrence Rare Coin Auctions
    139: Monday - Internet Auction # 480
    Description:
    One of the toughest Jefferson nickel varieties in high grade, and ranked in the original Top-10 Jefferson varieties as the 2nd rarest variety in mint state! The variety features the D-mintmark repunched, but with the 2nd mintmark inverted over the first. Beautiful coin with light gold toning and no problems.
    DLRC Star/Eye Appeal Rating: [3****]
    DLRC photos are typically very poor but this coin is very rare in premium gem and the collector really doesn't have the option to pass and wait for a more eye appealing example. DLRC gave they eye appeal of the coin 4 stars out of 5 which in combination with the photos was enough for me to bid on the coin. The coin is very attractive in hand and is deeply toned with on both sides with a vibrant gold patina. The repunched mintmark is plainly evident under a glass and the quality of the coin is deserving of the assigned grade.

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  23. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1946-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from Eternity Coin (E-Bay) for $95 and 163 registry points.
    This coin was purchased using the BIN option and the seller included a gem proof 2004-S Keelboat Jefferson in a 2x2 as a free bonus coin which was a nice touch.
    * 1946-S Jefferson Nickel 5C - NGC MS67 - Nice Coin! *
    Seller: Eternity Coin
    E-Bay Listing: 200551362745
    Ended: Dec 07, 201022:25:15 PST
    Coin Description:
    Light champagne toning rests over clean lustrous well struck surfaces. The eye appeal of this coin is completely related to the luster. Parts of the coin display frosty surfaces while other parts are satin in nature. The result is an intermingled luster effect which results in a powerful visual effect.
    Comments:
    I have seen this luster effect on other late 40's "S" mint Jefferson Nickels and actually own a 1948-S that could be this coin's twin and I describe as "eerily attractive, distinctive, almost polished looking mint frost with champagne highlights."
    The interesting thing about this coin is the price. The population of the 1946-S in MS67 is 126/0 with every example graded by NGC. Numsimedia wholesale lists their price guide at $60. However, despite the fact that the population reports indicate the 1946-S in MS67 is not scarce, Heritage has only auctioned 7 in their history. In fact, this specific coin was sold in an internet only auction for $57 in August 2007. This coin and the other that sold in November 2007 for $51 are probably the source of Numismedia's price.
    But marketplace availability can't be ignored. While there may be 126 in the population, how many of those have the eye appeal necessary to make it into my collection? From that small number, how long will it be before one is for sale in the market? The answers to those questions are not concrete but one thing is certain. It is worth $35 to obtain the example that seems overpriced in today's market in order to avoid the agonizing wait for another example to hit the market. So while to some it may seem I overpaid, I will gladly pay a premium for coins like this that have availability issues in the market.

  24. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1947-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 5FS from Greattoning (E-Bay) for $159 and -103 registry points.
    The auction was won using a max bid of $265.
    1947 d NGC MS66 5FS Gem Rainbow Toned Jefferson Nickel
    Seller: Greattoning
    E-Bay auction #: 370463686905
    Ended: Dec 12, 201018:13:28 PST
    This is now the fourth coin that I have purchased from this seller with the certification # 2538159-xxx. If these four coins were indicative of the eye appeal of the entire collection, I consider anyone who saw the collection in it's complete state very fortunate.
    Coin Description:
    Spectacular rainbow toning adorns this lustrous premium gem full step nickel. The untoned face of Jefferson yields to vibrant bands of orange, strawberry pink, blue and emerald green with a sandy color at the peripheries. The center of Monticello is also untoned with intermingled orange-yellow and walnut dominate the reverse with rainbow shades at the edges. A good strike is evidenced by full details on Monticello including five full steps. The surfaces are held back from the top pop grade by just a few significant marks in the focal areas of the coin.
    Comments:
    This coin replaces an MS67 in my registry set and nets a loss of 103 points. This begs the question. At what point does eye appeal overrule registry points? For me the answer is simple. If you look at the lower graded example and it strikes you as one of the most attractive coins you have ever seen for that date/mm, it becomes easy to include the lower graded coin in your set. The visual impact of this coin is undeniable despite the fact that some grader at NGC voted not to give this coin a star.
    In addition, this coin has full steps compared to the original slot holder which did not. The population in MS67 is 95/0. The population in MS66 FS including 6FS is 208/8. I believe that it is important to present a full step example for any date/mm that has a full step availability over 10%. The 1947-D was one of the few in my collection that violated that unwritten rule.
    Lastly, this is now the fourth coin from that incredible album collection bearing the certification # 2538159-xxx. The coin was purchased from the same E-Bay seller in December 2010 for a small premium over PCGS price guide.

  25. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1947-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from Greattoning (E-Bay) for $240 and 143 registry points.
    The auction was won using a max bid of $265
    1947 s NGC MS67 Gem Colorful Toned Jefferson Pop 11/0
    Seller: Greattoning
    E-Bay auction #:370446654795
    Ended: Oct 24, 2010 18:56:01 PDT
    The certification # of the coin is 2538159-031 and the seller had several other coins with varied dates/mm with the same certification # and similar toning patterns. This is strong evidence that a high grade album collection was recently graded by NGC and this seller is distributing the collection to the market.
     
    Coin Description:
    Gorgeous shades of peach, lavender, and powerful slate blue radiate outwards on the obverse to rainbow dappled peripheries of orange, gold, pink, and mint green. Remarkably clean with only two very minor distractions on Jeff's face. The reverse shows a conglomeration of pastel shades over equally clean surfaces. With a scant populaton of 12/0, this lustrous premium gem is well deserved of the assigned grade.
    Comments:
    This coin is spectacular. The color and eye appeal are outstanding and the surfaces are magnificent. Since PCGS has only graded one example from this date/mm MS67, it is unlikely that this coin would be graded MS67 by PCGS. However, this is an MS66+ all day long in a PCGS holder.
    The price guides for this date/mm are low in my opinion. Numismedia lists the coin at $100 in MS67 but I can only find two auction records in Heritage's archives over the last decade. In May, 2007, an Omaha Bank Hoard 1947-S NGC MS67 sold for $373.75. The only other example was sold for $21 in October 2001. With a population of less than 15 coins, $100 is a totally unreasonable expectation. The concept of marketplace availability alone will cause a premium to the established price guide value. Personally, I feel fortunate to win the auction with my max bid. Had I seen the coin in hand, my bid would have been much higher.