1939-S Jefferson Nickel. Reverse of 1940. MS-67 FS (PCGS). This is an enchanting Superb Gem whose technical quality and eye appeal both border on perfection. Smartly impressed surfaces are sharply defined throughout with impressively full detail to the central features on the reverse. Wisps of golden-apricot iridescence drift over fully lustrous surfaces, the reverse softly frosted in texture and the obverse with modest semi-reflective qualities evident as the coin rotates under a light. Silky smooth in appearance, even the finest Jefferson nickel set would benefit from the addition of this top-of-the-pop beauty. The San Francisco Mints second contribution to this ongoing series, the 1939-S was produced to the extent of 6,630,000 pieces, a limited total by the standards of the type. This issue features both the Reverse of 1938 and Reverse of 1940 hub types, the former far more common in numismatic circles based on the number of Mint State examples certified by PCGS. With its more deeply recessed and better detailed steps, however, the Reverse of 1940 is a bit more plentiful with Full Steps definition. Precious few survivors of either type, however, are as expertly preserved and aesthetically pleasing as the present example, a coin that is sure to see spirited bidding among specialists. From the George "Buddy" Byers Buckeye Collection. Earlier ex our Spring 2019 Baltimore Auction, lot 1044.
