Is this really FS?

I am not challenging anybody, but just trying to learn. This 1939-D is graded MS-66FS. I thought FS meant all the steps went all the way across with no interruptions. Is is just my screen or do those steps qualify? On my screen it appears the bottom steps on the right side are not fully formed and there appears to be a nick (planchet defect?) that crosses all the steps. Again, just trying to understand what the term really means.

https://www.greatcollections.com/Coin/773119

 

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First, there is a difference between NGC and PCGS. The PCGS "FS" designation only means 5FS, NGC differentiates between 5FS and the more difficult 6FS. For PCGS, the bottom step is not required.

However, I agree that the mark/nick seems to cut across more than one step, and should preclude the designation.

 

I agree with @physics-fan3.14

Not full steps in my book.

 

I can't believe that would meet anyones definition of FS.

 

PCGS seems to allow die defects in the step area.
This coin should not deserve the FS designation, and I think that the majority of
Nickel collectors would agree.

 

Someone had a hard day at the grading table.
Actually that should be several people.
I thought at least 2 people graded each coin and then there was a opinion by a finalizer.

 

Thanks for all the comments! Very helpful.

 

Two martini lunch.

 

Sorry, soapbox time

This is great example of "Buy the coin, not the holder". Somebody probably will end up paying too much for this coin because they will see the FS on the label and not the gouge on the steps. I wonder if that's the reason why it's consigned to Great Collections in the first place. Somebody is trying to unload their purchasing mistake

My coffee is now ready in this rainy/sleety/icy Saturday morning