@dcarr thanks for a great give-a-way and a novel way to do it.
Congrats to @COCollector!
Wayne

You can crystallize it down to this:
The Mint needs and wants bulksellers to help distribute and retail bullion related issues much of it mass produced. It's simply more economically efficient.

As such retailers are partners in a sense. Mint cannot deny these bulksellers access in some fashion to the limited edition profitable, highly valued merch. That keeps them interested in maintaining the relationship and helping to continue to retail Mint product.

It's not an individual person decision it's just good business.

Umm, Grandmother used to simply say [and mean MUCH more by it]:
"Consider the Source".
Well, whether Hollis worked at Blanchard 1, 5 10, 25 or more years ago begins a case in the negative for him. But he did have the capacity to interdict some of the goings on that NJC mentions. Also, without going political (LOL), he is a political appointee and so far, and across the board, have seen very little to support the "common man", and the collector in this case. I think I will leave it at that as The Emperor's New Clothes analogies are just too numerous at this point.

@124Spider said:
But I have a question--Understanding as I do how expensive the 1916 is (especially in the grades you're collecting), I still have trouble understanding how one can consider a SLQ date set to be complete without a 1916. I'm not trying to criticize, but it's a mystery to me. Thanks.

You answered your own question. Since the 1916 is pricey and can be cost prohibitive, it’s just a budget friendly alternative for people. Technically, it’s not complete without the 1916, obviously. I still might pick one up, someday..But until then, I’m satisfied with my progress.

Wow, very old original post

I served ... USN, 1983-1989
AT2 "Mad Man"
Mostly F/A-18 Hornets out of Lemoore, CA, but my last tour was on "Dodge" maintaining Cryptographic radio's when the Berlin Wall came down

.

My oldest Son served, my Dad and his Brother served, and my Brother served.

Thankfully we all came home.

Today I remember those who did not.

Too many to list here!

Regarding GFRC 2.0 and the picture improvement, the new owner's pictures have made a considerable improvement yet, in my view, are too dark. However, unlike a well known dealer, they are much more accurate than wildly color enhanced.

The similarity between the 1920/21 and 2026 designs is interesting.
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I don't feel like this gets said enough, but I have immense respect for all veterans of every branch. Regardless of politics, background, or era served, choosing to dedicate part of your life to military service takes immense levels of sacrifice. Many gave up time with family, opportunities, comfort, and in some cases their physical or mental well being in service to something bigger than themselves. So, to all veterans: thank you for your service, and God bless.

Looks to me to be an old staple scratch. I’d have to see it in hand to be sure.