Owner Comments:
Total Graded: 66578
Total Prooflike: 229
Percentage: 0.3440%
The Jefferson is one of the longest running series in the type set (behind only the Lincoln cent). However, the Jefferson did not change composition in 1964, and it did not change reverse in the 1950’s – so overall, the Jefferson and Monticello design is the longest running. The only exception is of course the silver issues of WWII. What this means is that there is a wide range of choices for prooflike examples – the three main eras of prooflike coinage in the 20th century are all represented. These are the S mint coins of the late 30’s through early 50’s, Denver coins of 1968-1972, and modern coins starting in the mid 80s. My present example is the first of these modern coins – 1984D.
Jefferson nickels are one of the series which are often collected by strike, with the reverse being designated as Full Steps. While building one of the other sets I have, the Franklin Half Dollar, I came to realize that a strong strike was important to me. For this type set, therefore, I selected a 5FS example for my set. Across the series, prooflike coins are roughly divided in half between FS and non-FS coins. In the mid 1990’s, the mint changed most coinage to have a shallower relief in an effort to extend the life of their dies. My coin, made in the 1980’s, has the higher relief. I think it makes a much nicer coin, and the strong strike stands out against the deeply reflective surfaces. This is no trace of toning, and the only thing holding it back from a higher grade is that unfortunate mark on Jefferson’s cheek.