1942 D Jefferson Nickel

, we are not sure if the obverse scratches are on the coin or 2x2 . also to better determine Full Steps .

MS 65, assuming fine horizontal lines are from the plastic, which I think it is. Looks like very close to full steps, but broken slightly in middle. Looks very nice

65, very attractive.

I agree with moxking to the T
That little hit on the steps take away a FS grade. The lines are probably in the plastic cello window.

I have several 1960s (hopefully FS) Jeffersons that I'd like to get grades on.

But first

1) What is the number of lines (steps) that one must observe unobstructed to make a determination that an FS exists?

2) What is keeping this one back from hitting a 66?

3) Is this one a 65 on both sides or just one? Which side is it if applicable?

4) Hypothetically, if one side is a 66 and the other a 65, is the overall grade only a 65?

I know that in some of the other lower grade (less than MS) coins I've seen slabbed, one side may be a couple of tiers lower and the overall grade does not seemingly decrease to the side with the lowest grade.

5) Finally, 'on average' based upon past CCF grading threads does grading using an Internet connection (as opposed to having an MS coin physically in hand) using CCF or similar setups have the reliability to accurately distinguish between a 65 and a 66?

this is just me, grading is subjective that's why you don't see dealers issuing numeric grades. they still use the generic G,VG,F,VF,XF,AU,BU,GEM BU

1) What is the number of lines (steps) that one must observe unobstructed to make a determination that an FS exists?

topic of debate. I'm at 5 steps

2) What is keeping this one back from hitting a 66?

IMO depth of luster & strike

3) Is this one a 65 on both sides or just one? Which side is it if applicable?

I think both sides grade 65

4) Hypothetically, if one side is a 66 and the other a 65, is the overall grade only a 65?

personally I normally net split grade coins or if there is only one grade difference then I go by the overall look of both sides to determine whether I go up or down


I know that in some of the other lower grade (less than MS) coins I've seen slabbed, one side may be a couple of tiers lower and the overall grade does not seemingly decrease to the side with the lowest grade.

certain coin types can have more grade relevance put on the obverse or even the reverse. this could be from known issues with the type or other factors. this is why I grade a coin by the coin and not the holder. I dont trust the TPG graders

5) Finally, 'on average' based upon past CCF grading threads does grading using an Internet connection (as opposed to having an MS coin physically in hand) using CCF or similar setups have the reliability to accurately distinguish between a 65 and a 66?


it can, based on the photos. most collectors/dealers who have been grading many years and are aware of how photos can affect grade can make a pretty good guess at it. its fairly simple with very good photos to see strike, luster and minor flaws which would hold a coin to 65 rather than 66. even the pro's can be fooled as noted on these threads multiple times.