1948-S 5C, FS

Description

1948-S Jefferson Nickel, MS67 Full Steps. This exceptional 1948-S nickel represents a significant find in the Jefferson series, combining both technical excellence and impressive rarity. Struck at the San Francisco Mint during a year that produced over 11.3 million pieces, this coin stands apart from its contemporaries through its exceptional preservation and the coveted *Full Steps* (FS) designation. Designed by Felix Schlag, the obverse and reverse exhibit sharp, well-defined details characteristic of premium-quality examples from this era. The coin has been certified by PCGS as MS67 Full Steps (Certificate #35626795), placing it among an extremely select group of survivors. Population data underscores the rarity: only four examples are known in higher grades, with just 22 total graded across all designations. In MS67 condition, fewer than a handful of Full Steps specimens are documented to exist, making this piece a notable acquisition for serious Jefferson Nickel collectors. The Full Steps designation indicates complete strike definition on the reverse steps—a challenging detail to achieve on nickels of this vintage. The lustrous surfaces display the bright, original mint appearance expected of a coin of this grade, with minimal contact marks and exceptional eye appeal. At a price guide value of $1,600, this represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire one of the finest known examples of this scarce date and mintmark combination.