If there is ANY break in ANY of the steps then it is not FS. And a break includes a weak strike or a scratch. All 6 steps must be complete and uninterrupted all the way across. I don't know if NGC still gives the 5 FS label.
NGC still utilizes the 5FS designation but the mark on the steps between the C & E interrupts the 4th & 5th steps as well which would preclude any chance at full steps. PCGS only requires 5 full steps for their FS designation.
The coin is well struck but does not qualify for full steps. As for the grade, based on those photos, I see friction in the fields which would mean AU58. In case I am interpreting the photos incorrectly, and the coin is actually mint state, it would still only grade MS63 max. There are a ton of contact marks on that coin in both the fields and devices and the luster is subpar as well. IMO, this coin is not worth having graded. As a general rule, Jefferson Nickels need to be at least gem grade to be worthy of a submission.
