1961 Jefferson Nickel Full Steps

Personal opinion aside, I saw a '61 w/a verticle dig through 3 that got a FS from PCGS the other day. I think you may get it on a good day. Tough find. Where did that come from?

Thank you for the responses ... sounds like possibly yes, probably no. What are the most prevalent factors in acquiring a Full Step designation?

The coin itself is part of a deceased family member's collection/hoard -- having been in the family for over 40 years -- that I have presently undertaken the task of sorting, etc., etc.

I have been a collector of FS nickels for a little while so let me offer my input. First off, 61 is a pretty tough year to get an FS designation. All the steps must show separation with only very minor interruptions allowed, and these interruptions have to be infrequent. In my experience, this threshold for what can be interrupted is about 1mm. Unfortunately, a vertical dig might just barely interrupt multiple steps (and be okay) but a horizontal one (as pictured) causes way too much blending and much beyond the threshold for just 2 steps. I think it is very unlikely that this coin would get an FS designation. What's unfortunate is that is isn't that far off from 6FS, but will miss 5FS IMO.

Given the positive potential return on receiving the FS designation, it is probably worth submitting to PCGS ... et al. I have been selling the aforementioned acquired collection/hoard to a local dealer as I sort through by denomination, type, etc. Upon my next visit, we will see what he has to say by viewing it "in person" and whether he advises submission. Thanks again for all the input and opinions. Keeping my fingers crossed!