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lehigh96

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Journal Entries posted by lehigh96

  1. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1960 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66* from Greattoning (E-Bay seller) for $175.50 and 79 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $464.50.
    1960 JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS66*
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: Greattoning
    E-Bay Listing: 320839392032
    Ended: Feb 08, 2012 18:44:01 PST
    Coin Description:
    Golden Centers radiate outward to a thick band of lilac followed by rainbow bands including yellow, cherry red, orange, and lime green. The surfaces are smooth and the strike is strong despite the complete absence of any steps. Strong luster in combination with the great album toning results in stunning eye appeal yielding a well deserved star designation.
    Comments:
    According to the NGC census (2/2012), this is the only 1960 Jefferson Nickel that has been awarded a star designation. In fact, from 1960-1963, NGC has only awarded a total of 6 star designations across all dates. None of the Denver mint coins have been awarded a star. Not a single nickel from 1961 has been awarded a star. Only one of the 6 coins has full steps. My point is that finding Jefferson Nickels from the early sixties with exceptional eye appeal is a very difficult task indeed. When you find one like the present example, you must act, and act decisively. My bid was almost 3X what I paid for the coin because I know exactly how scarce these coins are.
    Even finding an untoned generic premium gem examples are difficult. Consider that the populations (2/2012) for the 1960 Jefferson Nickel are PCGS (45/0) and NGC (113/7). Heritage has never auctioned an MS67 1960 Jefferson. Heritage has only listed 5 total MS66 Jefferson Nickels in their history. There are examples available on E-Bay but all are either overpriced or very uninspiring with respect to eye appeal. In my search to find superlative examples for my collection, I consider this a major achievement despite the apparent indifference shown by the rest of the Jefferson Nickel community as evidenced by the sale price.

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  2. 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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  3. 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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  4. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1956 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from Teletrade Auction #3267 for $250 and 81 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $400.
    1956 5C MS67: NGC Census: (19/0). PCGS Population (0/0) (5/12).
    Auction: 3267 Lot #1251
    Seller: Teletrade
    Auction Ended On: April 29th, 2012
    Description:
    A stunningly lustrous and remarkably clean coin with a hammered strike ta boot. Superlative in every facet of grading: surface preservation, luster, strike, and eye appeal. A mesmerizing example from a forlorn decade.
    Comments:
    This is a bold statement, but this coin is the highest quality nickel I have ever seen from the 1950s. The luster is so strong that it is almost unbelievable. Surfaces so clean that you need a loupe just to find one. And a strike that makes you think there is no way it was minted in the fifties. The detail in Monticello is completely full, all windows and doors as well as the steps. Unfortunately, the coin missed the 5FS designation; NGC must have felt that a shallow scratch interrupts the 2nd to 4th steps in the very center. I disagree. I knew from the Teletrade photos this coin was a monster but when I saw it in hand, it almost knocked me off my chair. One of the finest coins in my entire collection.

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  5. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1961 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from beers3740 (E-Bay seller) for $186.45 and 131 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $322.00
    1961 JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS67: NGC Census: (18/0). PCGS Population (2/0) (5/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: beers3740
    E-Bay Listing: 280851110401
    Ended: Mar 29, 201211:50:01 PDT
    Description:
    Both sides of this premium gem are blanketed by a pale gold & lavender patina. Only a few scattered marks are found on boldly impressed lustrous surfaces. Despite the incomplete steps, the details of Monticello are outstanding with full details on the windows and doors. As is typical for Jefferson Nickels, there is some remnant planchet roughness on the cheek and jaw.
    Comments:
    This coin is one of only 20 coins graded MS67 by either service. This coin is an outstanding representative for the date/mm and is certainly a permanent resident in this set.

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  6. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1962 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from beers3740 (E-Bay seller) for $354.74 and 1103 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $422.00
    1962 JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS67: NGC Census: (14/0). PCGS Population (0/0) (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: beers3740
    E-Bay Listing: 280845599468
    Ended: Mar 22, 2012 13:25:32 PDT
    Coin Description:
    Light champagne toning adorns both sides of this extremely lustrous and very clean early sixties Jefferson Nickel. The coin is very well struck but a very small bridge of the 3rd and 4th steps under the 2nd pillar precludes a full step designation and the coin grades 5-4-5-5 using the quarter step method.
    Comments.
    This coin replaces an MS66 5FS that was plagued by remnant planchet flaws on the cheek and jaw. I have never been a huge fan of the full step designation because it does not always indicate a great strike. Similarly, the absence of full steps does not condemn a Jefferson to have a poor strike. This coin is a good example. The strike is outstanding, and only a very small bridge and possibly a shallow mark technically preclude a full step designation but a casual glance would indicate full steps. Despite the enormous mintages of the early sixties, finding MS67 examples is daunting task as they are extremely rare. This coin is attractive, lustrous, and one of the finest extant specimens from 1962.

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  7. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1956-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66* from Greattoning (E-Bay seller) for $153.49 and 40 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $300.00
    1956-D JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS66*: NGC Census: (143/22). PCGS Population (150/1) (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: Greattoning
    E-Bay Listing: 320857118625
    Ended: Mar 04, 2012 18:03:25 PST
    Coin Description:
    The champagne center of the obverse yields to bright lavender and powder blue followed by thin rainbow bands of yellow, cherry, and lime green. And while the obverse is attractive, the reverse is absolutely stunning. The steps are untoned but vibrant bands of rainbow toning emanate from the untoned center including shades of tangerine, lavender, yellow, sapphire, and lime green. The die wear present improves the luster resulting in incredible eye appeal and a well deserved star designation. The coin has an appropriate number of marks and acceptable strike for the assigned grade.
    Comments:
    According to the NGC census (2/2012), this is the only 1956-D Jefferson Nickel that has been awarded a star designation. In fact, from 1955-1959, NGC has only awarded a total of 6 star designations across all dates and mints. Only the 1958-D star coin is graded MS67 and is also the only full step coin in the group. Finding attractive later date Jefferson Nickels is very difficult and finding coins with exceptional eye appeal worthy of a star designation is all but impossible.
    It is not that they dont exist, they do! The problem is that the large majority of the coins that look like the current example still remain in album collections across the country and the vast majority of those coins will not achieve a top pop grade. Undoubtedly, we will continue to see the number of star designations for later date Jefferson Nickels rise over the years to come, but I expect many to be less than the premium gem level represented here. In my opinion, this coin was well worth the 4X premium that I paid to obtain it.

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  8. 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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  9. 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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  10. 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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  11. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1956 Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 from drbobcoins (E-Bay seller) for $23.49 and 3 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $21.00.
    1956 5C MS66: NGC Census: (199/16). PCGS Population (101/0) (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: drbobcoins
    E-Bay Listing: 120858823835
    Ended: Feb 18, 201211:20:24 PST
    Coin Description:
    A wonderfully lustrous and well struck example with a very attractive silver grey patina. A few significant marks including the one the shoulder limit the grade to MS66.
    Comments:
    At first glance, the overall strike, luster, and eye appeal lead the observer to immediate think MS67. It is only upon closer inspection that the grade limiting marks appear. Personally, I would like to see this premium quality coin reside in an MS66+ holder.
    What puzzles me about this coin is the point assignment. With a total population of 300/16, this coin is only worth 3 points in the NGC registry. Most of the other later date Jefferson Nickels are worth anywhere from 20-50 points in MS66 with similar populations. I guess I will just have to keep my eye out for one of the MS67 examples.

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  12. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1954-S/D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS65 from Greattoning (E-Bay seller) for $182.50 and 620 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $265.50.
    1954-S/D 5C MS65: NGC Census: (45/33). PCGS Population (92/3) (2/2012).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: Greattoning
    E-Bay Listing: 330682654009
    Ended: Feb 12, 201217:31:01 PST
    Coin Description:
    The current example has an average strike for the 1954-S which was the worst struck nickel of the entire series. The steps are non existent, there is die wear on both sides as well as significant loss of detail on both sides with respect to the hair and the interior details of Monticello. Both sides are blanketed in a rich steel blue, orange, and magenta patina that provides alluring eye appeal.
    Comments:
    The 1954-S/D is one of the more dramatic over mintmark varieties found within the Jefferson Nickel series. The die initially received a D mintmark and was later punched with an S mintmark. The bottom edge of the D clearly protrudes from the bottom of the S mintmark. FS-501, formerly FS-033, CONECA: OMM-001, NGC VARIETY PLUS: VP-001. An underlying D is seen within and below the S mintmark. The NGC census in MS65 (2/2012) is 45/33 with all higher examples graded MS66.
    While I recognize the collectibility of the over mintmark varieties, I have a fundamental problem with the amount of registry points that they garner in comparison to the both the regular issues and the other varieties such as the doubled dies. Consider that the total population for the 1954-S/D in MS65 is 137/36 yet it earns 620 registry points. Compare that to the 1954-S MS67 that has a total population of 19/0 which only yields 183 points. When compared side by side, the difference in quality between an MS67 and MS65 is undeniable but the MS65 gets a huge increase in registry points due to a very minor die variation in my opinion.
    It is not that I dont appreciate that these varieties deserve a premium in points compared to a non variety coin of the same grade, but the points assignment has to make sense. For whatever reason, NGC has decided not to use the most simple point scale which would simply be based upon price. As it stands, the current point system used by the NGC registry forces the competitor to include inferior coins in their collection if they want to maximize their point total and ranking.

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  13. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1949-S Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 from Greattoning (E-Bay seller) for $70.00 and 59 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $125.50.
    1949-S 5C MS66: NGC Census: (130/21). PCGS Population (76/0) (12/11).
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: Greattoning
    E-Bay Listing: 320842938139
    Ended: Feb 12, 201217:45:01 PST
    Coin Description:
    The surfaces are only MS65 quality but the luster and eye appeal are outstanding yielding the market grade of MS66. Vibrant yellow, powder blue, and peach blanket the well struck obverse. The reverse shows yellow, lilac, and burnt orange in a variegated pattern. And while the strike is decent, the steps are all but non existent.
    Comments:
    I find it ironic that after discussing how elusive the 1949-S has been over the last 5 years back in December 2011, that another example hits the market less than 2 months later. An example that is just as lustrous and with much better eye appeal. And while the surfaces of the NGC MS66 do not compare to the surfaces of the PCGS MS66, my collection is first and foremost about eye appeal. Move over PCGS, you have just been relegated to the duplicate set and I sentence you to wear a for sale sign by the end of the month.

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  14. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1955-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 5FS from Teletrade Auction #3020 for $132 and 336 registry points.
    1955-D 5C MS66: NGC Census: (89/0). PCGS Population (30/0) (2/11).
    Auction: 3020 Lot #1235
    Seller: Teletrade
    Auction Ended On: February 23, 2011
    Coin Description:
    As expected for the date, the details are mushy in the centers, specifically the steps on the reverse and the ear area on the obverse. Otherwise, the coin is actually well struck. There is extensive die wear which yields superb luster on this lightly golden toned Jefferson. The surfaces are not spectacular but many of the distractions are remnant planchet flaws including the large flaw above the steps.
    Comments:
    As any experienced Jefferson Nickel collector can attest, they find themselves apologizing for the quality of the later date nickels. Compared to a pre-war time nickel, this coin is a chocolate mess, but for 1955, this is about as good as they come and worth of the assigned top pop grade.

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  15. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1971-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from asdfy (E-Bay seller) for $27 and 123 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $35.50.
    1971-D JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS67
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: asdfy
    E-Bay Listing: 270899026822
    Ended: Jan 29, 201218:08:49 PST
    Coin Description:
    This coin should be captioned, DIE WEAR EVERYWHERE. An untoned premium gem with MS67 surfaces with respect to marks, strike, and luster. A single mark on the steps precludes the full step designation.
    Comments:
    I have never seen another coin from any series so plagued by die wear as the present example. I estimate that over 90% of the surfaces exhibit evidence of die fatigue. To be honest, it is distracting when viewed close up in a photo or under a glass, but when viewed from a distance, the effect on the luster of the coin is quite attractive and very unique. The more I look at this coin, the more I like it.

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  16. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1968-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS66 from asdfy (E-Bay seller) for $16.15 and 45 registry points.
    The coin was won using a max bid of $21.50.
    1968-D JEFFERSON NICKEL NGC MS66
    Seller: E-Bay Seller: asdfy
    E-Bay Listing: 280811725830
    Ended: Jan 29, 201218:06:14 PST
    Coin Description:
    Both sides of this premium gem are bathed in a gorgeous grey gold patina. The surfaces are extremely smooth for the assigned grade. The luster and strike are also exemplary despite the absence of full steps. A large die crack traverses the top of Jeffersons head on the obverse.
    Comments:
    A premium quality coin for the assigned grade that would not look out of place in an MS67 holder. It is always nice when you can pick up a registry quality coin for less than $20. With my 1938-1964 set nearing completion, hopefully I can continue to find affordable modern Jeffs to add to my 1938-Present set.

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  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 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.

  19. lehigh96
    In my last journal entry, I announced that had recently lost my job and that I was planning on opening an E-Bay store (Lehigh Coins) in order to help liquidate my collection.
    One week ago today, I started listing my duplicate Jefferson Nickels on my newly opened E-Bay Store. As a complete neophyte to selling on E-Bay, it was taking me 30 minutes to complete each listing. I worked diligently over the first two days to list as many items as I could. By the end of the third day I had listed all of my Jefferson duplicates up to the end of the war years and was picking up speed and confidence along the way. I felt a huge sense of relief as people had started asking when the war nickels were going up for sale.
    After listing 60 Jefferson Nickels, I needed a break and proceeded to list all of my Peace Dollars and some of my rainbow toned type coins. The process of listing the coins is hard work as is the photography, but I am pleased to announce that sometimes hard work does indeed pay off.
    In the first week of my E-Bay store, I have generated over $5,000 in total sales and received countless positive private messages about my store and my coins. I would like to thank everyone who has purchased one of my coins over the last week and vow to give the best customer service that I can to anyone interested in any of my coins.
    It is painful to sell my collection, but it is very satisfying to see the jubilation of others as they acquire a toned coin that they absolutely love. While documenting our purchases is a very important part of the hobby, I believe that a major sell off also deserves some airtime. I have posted a photo below of the most valuable coin to sell in the first week. I won't disclose the price or the buyer at this time, so let your imagination run wild.

  20. lehigh96
    Until now, all of my Journals have been a historical documentation of my coin acquisitions. I would like to take some time out in this journal entry to offer my congratulations to the 2011 NGC Registry Award Winners and to state my New Year's Resolution in relation to my collection.
    The Registry Awards this year seemed to have caused a very emotional response from many of the participants. I think it is important to realize that everyone in a position to win an award works very hard on their collections and they take those collections very seriously.
    I would like to congratulate all of the winners this past year and applaud their dedication to our great hobby. Furthermore, I would like to call special attention to the winner of THE MOST CREATIVE CUSTOM SET for 2011, THE BRG COLLECTION--HORSES. This is one of the most fantastic registry sets I have ever had the pleasure to view. Bravo Brandon on presenting such a fantastic set!
    To all of the participants who did not win an award, I would like to encourage you to keep working at improving your collections and your registry displays. Eventually your hard work will pay off. It took me three years to improve the presentation of my collection before I finally won a Best Presented Set Award in 2010.
     
    I was given an award for best journal entries over the last year. This came as a complete surprise since I had stopped posting my new acquisitions in my Journal entries midway through the year. 2011 was a difficult year for me personally with the loss of both my girlfriend and job in the last 6 months. As a result, my attention to coin collecting in general seemed to wane. But the journal award has inspired me to once again devote my passion back into numismatics.
    My New Year's resolution is that I will complete at least one Journal entry every month without exception. Since I only have 12 coins left to complete my Jefferson Nickel collection, it will be probable that I won't have a new acquisition every month. On the months that I don't have a new acquisition to create a new journal entry, I will create an entry entitled REWIND. These entries will focus on a coin that I have purchased in the past that will provide an opportunity to teach a valuable lesson about the Jefferson Nickel series.
    As a consequence of my current unemployment, I will be liquidating most of my collection outside of my Jefferson Nickels. This will include all of my rainbow toned coins as well as my duplicate Jefferson Nickels. Much of the higher end material has already been consigned and sold through Heritage. In order to help sell the rest of my collection, I will be opening a new E-Bay Store in the very near future. I have attached the logo below.
    Happy New Year to everyone and here is wishing everyone the best in 2012.

  21. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1959-D Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 from a Heritage 2011 Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131152 for $53 and 37 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $144.
    1959-D 5C MS66: NGC Census: (159/16). PCGS Population (40/0) (12/11).
    Auction: Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131152 Lot #27479
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: December 27, 2011
    Coin Description:
    An immensely attractive coin with super clean surfaces and a hammered strike. A bronze patina with highlights of pale lilac is brought forth by full mint bloom. A single mark that interrupts the steps precludes the full step designation on this coin with a full step strike.
    Comments:
    This coin is a BEAST. Superlative in every way yet PCGS just couldn't bring themselves to give it an MS67 grade and make it the lone top pop. This coin belongs in at the very least an MS66+ holder. My guess is that if resubmitted to PCGS, that is what would happen and NGC would upgrade it to join the other 16 MS67 examples. Interestingly, I posted a guess the grade thread about this coin on the CU forums and most of the members were less than impressed with the coin, but all of the Jefferson Nickel collectors agreed the coin is PCGS MS66 and NGC MS67.
    To find a PQ top pop Jefferson to add to my collection for a $50 price tag fills me with joy for this new year. This is what coin collecting is about. Using your superior knowledge about a series to find and acquire a PQ coin at a bargain price that others regard as common dreck. This coin is anything but dreck and thank God for mark on the steps, otherwise this coin would cost thousands of dollars.

  22. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1949-S Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 from a Heritage 2011 Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131152 for $56 and 59 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $89.
    1949-S 5C MS66: NGC Census: (130/21). PCGS Population (76/0) (12/11).
    Auction: Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131152 Lot #27475
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: December 27, 2011
    Coin Description:
    Attractive golden toning with lilac peripheries adorns this well struck premium gem with absolutely booming luster. The luster is so prominent that makes the minor imperfections on the surfaces seem to disappear to the naked eye. Great overall detail and excellent step detail despite not being full.
    Comments:
    The population in MS66 FS is only 19/3 for both services and drive prices in excess of $1,000. I would prefer to own an attractive full step example for this date/mm but until then, this attractive $50 coin will fill the slot nicely. Similar the 1949 that I purchased from the same Heritage Internet Auction, this is only the 2nd 1949-S MS66 to be auctioned by Heritage in the last 3 years. And while I would love to compare this to other 1949-S Jeffersons, this is the first one I have ever seen in hand. The word elusive comes to mind.

    To see old comments for this Journal entry, click here. New comments can be added below.
  23. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1949 Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 from a Heritage 2011 Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131152 for $44 and 37 registry points.
    This auction was won using a max bid of $230.
    1949 5C MS66: NGC Census: (105/5). PCGS Population (72/0) (12/11).
    Auction: Sunday Internet Coin Auction #131152 Lot #27474
    Seller: Heritage Rare Coin Auctions
    Auction Ended On: December 27, 2011
    Coin Description:
    Both sides of this extremely attractive lustrous premium gem show concentric bands of yellow, pink, lime green, orange, cherry red, and green. Well struck by 1949 standards and the majority of the roughness on the coin is from planchet flaws.
    Comments:
    At this point, my registry collection is 84% complete. Rest assured that any coin that gets added at this point has been extremely difficult to find. The 1949 is one of the toughest to find in the entire series IMO. Despite the fact that there are 175+ examples at the MS66 grade, this is only the 4th to be auctioned by Heritage in the last 3 years. And when a 1949 does hit the market, they are usually so totally uninteresting that I fall asleep while deciding whether or not to bid. Okay, so I made that up and I use Gavelsnipe for all Heritage internet sales, but my point is well taken. When this rainbow toned top pop PCGS 1949 Jefferson came to auction, there was no way I was going to let it slip through my fingers. I did not like the surfaces for an MS66, but understood that the eye appeal is undeniable, and possibly, unapproachable.

  24. lehigh96
    Obtained a 1952-D Jefferson Nickel NGC MS67 from Teletrade Auction #3187 for $150 and 237 registry points.
    1952-D 5C MS67: NGC Census: (40/0). PCGS Population (1/0) (12/11).
    Auction: 3187 Lot #1800
    Seller: Teletrade
    Auction Ended On: December 11, 2011
    Coin Description:
    Both sides are enveloped by an attractive patina of mixed golden orange and lilac. With the exception of the steps, Monticello is fully detailed and the obverse is well struck as well. Some planchet roughness exists on the jaw but none of the minor marks found on this coin are in the focal areas. A fully lustrous and attractive premium gem that has been carefully preserved.
    Comments:
    Q David Bowers lists the population of the 1952-D Jefferson Nickel at 41/0 in this book, A GUIDE BOOK OF BUFFALO AND JEFFERSON NICKELS. The book was last published in 2007 which means the certified populations are almost 5 years old at this time. However, the population of the 1952-D in MS67 remains the same. At some point, we are going to have to face the fact that Jefferson Nickels from the 50's & 60's are actually rare in premium gem and that the populations are not going to increase dramatically with the discovery of long lost original bank wrapped rolls of nickels. IMO, the only way to move these populations is with the eventual grading of cherrypicked album collections by Jefferson Nickel connoisseurs.

  25. 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!