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Proof Sets
U.S. Mint proof sets are some of the most popular coins with collectors and are often the catalyst for many to get started in the hobby of coin collecting. Uncirculated proof sets have been issued for over eighty years, since 1936, and are responsible for countless hours of enjoyment for both children and adults alike. There have been many different types of proof sets released for sale over the years, fitting almost any budget. While collectors often think of Proof and Mint sets as meaning standard proof and Mint sets, a variety of types have been produced over the years. Popular U.S. proof sets include clad proof sets, silver proof sets, gold proof sets, and mint sets, from vintage dates to modern proof coinage, in regular and reverse proof designs. Keep reading to learn more about U.S proof sets and browse our extensive selection below!
Proof Coinage
A proof coin is a specially made coin with brilliant mirror-like surfaces and sharp details. They are the U.S. Mint’s finest coinage minted, for quality of strike and overall eye appeal. The term “Proof,” is the manufacturing process, not the condition of a coin. Proof coinage is specifically made for collectors, demanding higher premiums than average business strike coins, and are not intended for general circulation. Business strike coins pale in comparison to mirror-like proof issues, so it’s easy to get spoiled with proof coins, because everything else looks much less appealing. Highly-polished mirror-like surfaces provide sharp contrast between the foreground and background areas, resulting in bold, sharp details.
Mint Location
U.S. Mint proof coins are made at the West Point, San Francisco, and Philadelphia mint locations, using modern high-tech equipment and special proof minting processes, resulting in deep-mirrored surfaces with frosted contrasting cameo designs. Sold individually or in proof sets, all U.S. Proof coins come with an official Certificate of Authenticity.
History of U.S Proof Sets
The U.S. Mint started assembling proof sets in 1936, and selling them directly to collectors. These first proof sets were made available to collectors only when they purchased one of each coin on the same order, to receive a complete annual set. By the 1950’s demand grew for proof sets, so the U.S. Mint also started minting business strike commemorative coins, available in proof finishes. This wide variety of new proof sets of commemorative coins with different proof finishes were an instant hit with collectors, and the popularity of proof coins exploded. Today, technology provides perfect proof specimens, protected and sealed for future generations to enjoy.
With proof coin sets, there is something for everybody with a wide variety to choose from, like Clad Proof Coin Sets, Silver Proof Coin Sets, Gold Poof Coin Sets, Prestige Proof sets, and Mint Coin Sets. With all of the Proof and Mint Sets we have to offer, there's sure to be something that's right for you and your collection.
Proof Sets are small collections of coins issued by the U.S. Mint, which include the highest quality versions of the coin struck in a given year. Proof sets contain coins struck on highly polished metal blanks using specially prepared and polish dyes. Proof coins possess beautiful mirror-like surfaces with magnificent detail and they're issued in official government packaging, which has changed over the decades. U.S. proof sets are issued in both silver as well as lower cost base metal versions. Proof coins are the highest quality examples of U.S. coinage ever struck. Why not collect the best of the best? Proof sets are an easy and affordable way to own pristine examples of many one-year-only coin designs, such as Statehood quarters and Presidential dollars. They make perfect gifts for children, grandchildren, or anyone interested in our Nation's coinage and its history. Because proof sets are government-issued, you can be assured of their quality, metal content, and authenticity.
