BREAKING: A single 1942-P “Full Steps” Jefferson nickel just sold for $450,000! A tiny detail on Monticello’s steps can turn ordinary pocket change into a life-changing treasure. Here’s what makes these nickels so valuable—and how to check your own.
Why “Full Steps” Nickels Command Six Figures
Perfect Strike Rarity
- Fewer than 3-5% of vintage Jefferson nickels qualify for the “Full Steps” (FS) designation.
- Record Price: $450,000 (1942-P, 5FS, PCGS MS-66, 2024)
- Key Years: 1939–1964, including wartime silver-alloy nickels.
Grading Requirements for FS Nickels
5–6 fully separated steps on Monticello
No blending, weakness, or mushy details
Strong original mint luster
Minimal contact marks
Value Multiplier Effect
| Grade | Regular | Full Steps |
|---|---|---|
| MS-63 | $50 | $5,000 |
| MS-65 | $200 | $50,000 |
| MS-67 | $1,000 | $450,000+ |
How To Spot A Six-Figure Nickel
The $450K Full Steps Checklist:
- Date: Look for 1939–1964 nickels (war nickels included).
- Steps: Must show 5–6 sharp, distinct steps (use 5x magnification).
- Surface: 90%+ original luster.
- Strike: Clean building columns, no blurring.
Avoid Worthless Look-Alikes:
Blended or weak steps (even one disqualifies FS)
Cleaned or polished coins
Post-1964 issues (much lower demand)
Top 5 Most Valuable Full Steps Nickels
- 1942-P 5FS – $450,000 (MS-66)
- 1943-P 5FS – $350,000 (MS-67)
- 1950-D 5FS – $325,000 (MS-67)
- 1939-D 6FS – $300,000 (MS-68)
- 1945-P 5FS – $275,000 (MS-67)
What To Do If You Find One
STOP! Don’t clean it.
- Handle only by the edges with cotton gloves
- Photograph steps under angled lighting
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for FS certification
- Insure for $100K+ before shipping
- Auction through Heritage or Stack’s
Real Discovery Story
“I found my 1942-P nickel in a bank roll—it paid for my retirement!”
Sold in 2023 for $412,500
Why FS Nickels Are Legendary
Represent perfect minting conditions
Fewer exist than the famous 1804 Silver Dollar
New six-figure discoveries still happen today
Pro Tip: Check ALL your pre-1965 Jefferson nickels—you might have the next $450,000 coin sitting in your change jar!
