1948-S 5C, FS

Description

1948-S Jefferson Five Cents, MS67 FS, PCGS. This exceptional 1948-S nickel represents a significant find for serious Jefferson nickel collectors. Struck at the San Francisco Mint during a year that saw substantial production of 11.3 million pieces, this coin has achieved a remarkable MS67 grade with the coveted Full Steps (FS) designation from PCGS. The FS designation indicates fully defined steps on Monticello's reverse—a feature that becomes increasingly elusive in higher grades and one of the most challenging aspects of collecting Jefferson nickels in premium condition. The technical specifications reflect the standard composition of the era: 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams with a diameter of 21.2mm. Designed by Felix Schlag, the obverse and reverse display sharp strikes and lustrous surfaces characteristic of coins that have been carefully preserved since their original coinage. The plain edge is consistent with nickel production standards of the period. Population data underscores the rarity of this piece. Among the 22 examples of the 1948-S nickel graded by PCGS, only 4 coins have achieved higher grades than this specimen. In MS67 condition, fewer than a few dozen examples are known to exist across all grading services, and with the Full Steps designation, this coin represents one of only a handful known. This combination of high grade and the demanding FS standard makes this a significant offering for the advanced collector. PCGS Certification #35626795