Proof & Mint Sets

proof sets

the u.s. mint released proof coins of all the denominations from the year 1936, except for the dollar! most early proof coins exhibit a frosted effect and are called the frosted proofs. in recent years, a cameo effect is given to provide mirror-like surfaces and contrasting frosted effect for raised surfaces. the proof coins from 1936 to 1954 were packaged in cardboard boxes. from 1955, the proof sets were placed in transparent cellophane holders called flat packs. the early proof coins were called matte proof coins with granular surfaces instead of frosted ones. they were released as individual coins from 1908 to 1916. some silver dollar matte proofs were also released in 1921 and 1922.

regular proof sets

the proof sets struck after 1936 were a five-coin set. they were struck till 1942, when the production was stopped for the second world war. it was resumed in 1950 and continued till 1972. from 1973, the dollar was included and from 1999 to 2008 the proof sets included the state quarters released each year. later proof sets also included the presidential coins and other commemorative coins. silver proof sets were initiated in the year 1992 by the u.s. mint. these sets contain coins that are 90% silver.

mint sets

mint sets or uncirculated sets, which are collector versions of circulation coins, are sold annually by the united states mint. uncirculated mint set was introduced in 1947 in a cardboard display case and continued in that package till 1958. from 1959 to 1964 the coins were packaged in cellophane pouches. from 1964 to 1967, special mint sets were produced with satin-like finish and the coins had no mint mark. from 1968 to 2004 mint sets with coins having mint marks were introduced with minor change in packaging. from 2005 to 2010, special sandblasted dies gave satin-like finish to mint set coins. from 2011 to present date, mint set coins have a proof-like “brilliant” finish.

@csn we have a collection of american proof and mint sets ranging from the 1940’s to 2000’s.