Grade For This 1954 S/D Jefferson Nickel?

First of all ... to the forum!

This is without a doubt the 1954 S/D over mint mark (OMM). Fabulous score at $2.50 indeed.

Collectors know this as FS-05-1954S-501. We believe they were struck from only one die pair with an estimated 200,000 coins struck with the OMM.

The Jefferson nickels of this era are notorious for weak strikes ... There are no reported examples that I know of a well-struck full step 1954 S/D ... so the apparent lack of details on your coin might be strike issues and not circulation wear.

The strength of the OMM on your coin leads me to believe this is an early die-state example ... which for a variety collector is more important than the actual technical grade of the coin itself.

All that said ... I am unable to offer an informed opinion on technical grade ... because I am unable to judge the surfaces from your photos.

You need to tell us about the quality and integrity of the surface luster ... in particular are there high spots where the original luster is missing which would indicate circulation wear.

If worn ... then AU55 to AU58.

If complete luster all around ... then perhaps MS63 to MS65 ... a great 'cherrypicker' score and worthy of bragging about.

David

Thanks David (and everyone). It is hard for me to judge the amount of luster, since I am not a pro at this. It looks to me like there is very little difference between the luster on the high points and on the rest of the coin as I move it in the light--pretty consistent throughout the whole surface of the coin.

I really noticed the weakness of the strike--both on the details of Monticello on the rev and the hair of Mr. Jeff on the obv. But as you said, the weakness of the strike seems pretty typical in this period.

Would a couple better pictures help?

Just trying to figure out if it would be worth it to send it in and get it graded.

Thanks everyone! This forum is so cool!

My opinion FWIW ... place the coin in a 2x2 ... label it 1954 S/D ... and be happy with the cherrypick find.

Although a great find ... the cost to send to a TPG is IMHO not worth it for this coin ... a grade of MS63 might value your coin at perhaps $40 while costing you nearly that much with fees and shipping both ways.

Your call of course ...

David

I just found a 1954 S which looks a little different than yours. The S looks flat to me. Is this an S over D?