1948-S Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 FS posted by lehigh96

[CSJournals-migration]

Obtained a 1948-S Jefferson Nickel PCGS MS66 FS from David Lawrence Rare Coins for $184 and 59 registry points.

 

The auction was won using a bid of $200.

 

David Lawrence Rare Coin Auctions

7158: Thursday - Internet Auction # 483

 

This coin was part of the Monticello Collection offered by DLRC. There is actually a curious story behind my bid on this coin. With a few days left in the auction, a high end coin collector e-mailed me asking about the Monticello Collection. This collector is in the top ten in total points in the NGC registry He told me that he considered me a connoisseur of Jefferson Nickels and wanted my opinion of the collection. He also stated that he was not bidding but was curious about what I thought. I told him that the collection had some real winners and some dogs. I also told him that I considered the steal of the entire auction this 1948-S. If you look closely at the very poor DLRC scan, you will notice hints of color on the obverse of the coin. Based on experience, I knew that this coin most likely had beautiful pastel iridescent rainbow toning.

 

DLRC Star/Eye Appeal Rating: [3*****]

 

I think I did a much better job than DLRC imaging this coin. Gorgeous shades of iridescent chartreuse, lime green, and strawberry magenta dance on clean satin surfaces. A few minor marks on Jefferson's coat limit the grade but this coin would have very good chance at an MS67 grade in an NGC holder IMO. At the very least it would be an MS66+ and possibly a star. The steps are a solid 5 full steps and I am confident they would grade as full steps at NGC. Using the quarter step method, I grade them 6-5-5-5.

[lehigh96]

Here are the enlarged photos. The first is the DLRC scan, followed by my image, and lastly a close up of the steps.

 

 

I would love to hear anyone's comments on this coin or the photography.

[johnny9434]

I like the looks of it. My question is whats the 2 nicks, 1 on the collor and 1 on the shoulder. Is that on the holder? just curious bout it

[lehigh96]

I like the looks of it. My question is whats the 2 nicks, 1 on the collor and 1 on the shoulder. Is that on the holder? just curious bout it

 

They are on the coin and are most certainly the reason the coin is not in an MS67 holder. PCGS is more conservative than NGC when it comes to Jefferson Nickels. Here is what NGC considers an MS67 for the 1948-S.

 

 

I lost 104 registry points when I picked up this coin but it is hard to dispute that the PCGS coin is the nicer nickel Better strike, better color, more eye appeal.

[johnny9434]

still a nice pick up. enjoy

[Schatzy]

Paul...nice pickup!!