JEFFERSON STEPS • This refers to Jefferson Nickels that are Graded "FS", "5FS" and "6FS" - i.e.: the number of complete, detailed Full Steps on the front of the Monticello building on the reverse of Jefferson nickels from 1938 through 2003. This is a designation given only to Mint State coins. Currently, NGC and ANACS are the only Reputable Grading Companies that Grades Jefferson Nickels in each numbered category. ANACS, grades Jefferson Nickels in 5FS, 5.5FS, and 6FS. PCGS Grades Jefferson Nickels as "FS", meaning Full Steps or Five Steps. PCGS does not differentiate between 5 Steps and 6 Steps.

These Special Coins are "Few and Far Between" - Very Difficult to Find, and are obviously Very Rare. There can be no significant impediments to the steps. Any cross marks or "Bridges", other than superficial, will eliminate this special designation. Generally 5 Steps Jefferson's are found 1:20, or one in twenty nickels; and the "6FS" is very rare. The FS or 5FS Jeffersons can exist between 2%-20% of a paticular year, but 5% is the average over all. This seems to be higher prior to 1950. The percentage of the Jefferson 6 Steps is, perhaps, 10% of the number of 5 Steps coins Graded - or from 2/10ths of 1% up to 2% overall - which is Extremely Rare, and therefore accordingly expensive