What Is A United States Proof Set? | Colonial Acres Coins

Last updated on April 8th, 2021 at 12:51 pm

Last Updated on April 8, 2021 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins

The term “proof set” is one that often tends to confuse beginner coin collectors. It actually stands for a collection of proof coins from one particular year. The set can be individually assembled by a collector or dealer from proof coins purchased separately, or can be officially marketed by the issuing mint as a “set.” The most important part is that the coins included in a proof set are all special specimen strikings for exhibition, souvenir, presentation or some other numismatic purpose. Go to www.colonialacres.com for more information on proof coins and sets.

United States Proof Sets

The term “proof” actually refers to a special manufacturing method that results in the highest quality coins available as it brings out the finest detail of the coin’s design. Among various proof coins and sets in existence today, many United States proof sets are particularly interesting and valuable. The oldest known United States proof coins are dated 1801. But, it is believed that these coins were struck in later years using the dies with the 1801 date. The fact that proof coins were only made by special request before 1856 makes them extremely rare and expensive.

The Beginning Of Proof Sets

The United States Mint began selling sets of several proof coins directly to collectors in 1861. These were actually subsets of the current coinage and not comprehensive sets of every coin minted. Interested parties could get their hands on all the gold coins or silver coinage, or just the minor coinage. This practice came to an end in 1901.

Modern Proof Sets

The United States Mint started issuing complete sets of all circulating coins in the proof finish in 1936, but the striking of proof coins was temporarily halted due to World War II efforts from 1943 to 1949. As a result of a coin shortage in the United States, production was again suspended between 1965 and 1967. The penny, nickel, dime, quarter and half dollar were all included in sets from 1936 to 1972. The dollar coin was also included from 1973 to 1981, and again from 2000. Between 1983 and 1997, Special Prestige Proof Sets were also sold. Additionally, proof sets also contained each of the National Park Quarters or Fifty State Quarters since 1999. The four Presidential dollars were subsequently added from 2007.

Looking To Get Your Hands On Some United States Proof Sets? Check Out Colonial Acres

Colonial Acres Coins is your one-stop-shop for all things related to numismatics. It is home to a comprehensive and experienced team of professional numismatists who have the experience to offer both great advice and interesting coin pieces to young and experienced collectors alike. Colonial Acres also happens to be the place where you can get your hands on some pretty great U.S. proof sets, such as:

Waste no more time and head down to Colonial Acres Coins for a chance to add some pristine and valuable United States proof coins and sets to your collection. For more information on the products available at Colonial, visit www.colonialacres.com.