A 1994-P Jefferson Nickel ANACS MS65 6-Steps is a specific type of graded coin with several key characteristics. Here is a breakdown of what each term means and what you can expect in terms of value.
Breakdown of the Coin’s Description
- 1994-P: This indicates the coin’s year of mintage and the mint it was produced at. “P” stands for the Philadelphia Mint.
- Jefferson Nickel: This refers to the series of U.S. five-cent coins featuring Thomas Jefferson.1
- ANACS: This is one of the major third-party coin grading services in the United States. ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service) authenticates and grades coins, then seals them in a protective holder.
- MS65: This is the numerical grade on the Sheldon Coin Grading Scale. “MS” stands for “Mint State,” which means the coin is in an uncirculated condition.2 A grade of 65 is considered a “Gem Uncirculated” coin. It’s a high grade, but not the highest (which is MS70). An MS65 coin will have a strong strike and excellent eye appeal, with only a few, light contact marks.
- 6-Steps: This is a key designation for Jefferson Nickels. It refers to the steps leading up to the Monticello building on the reverse side of the coin.3 A “6-Steps” (or “6FS” for “6 Full Steps”) designation means that all six steps are clearly visible, separate, and uninterrupted.4 This is a sign of a very strong, full strike from the mint and is highly sought after by collectors.5
Value and Rarity
The “6-Steps” designation significantly increases the value of a Jefferson Nickel, as many coins in the series were poorly struck and lack this feature. The combination of a high grade (MS65) and the 6-Steps designation makes this a desirable coin for collectors.
The value of this specific coin can vary widely depending on the exact eye appeal, but generally speaking, it will be worth more than a 1994-P Jefferson Nickel with just an MS65 grade and no steps designation. Coin price guides and auction results are the best way to determine the current market value. As a general reference, a 1994-P Jefferson Nickel with a 6-Steps designation can be worth a significant premium over its face value, and the value increases with the grade.
