1952 Proof set - grade or not?
AndyK
Posts: 69 ✭✭✭
I recently purchased a 1952 proof set in the original packaging, mainly because it clearly contained a 1952 "super bird" quarter. I'm having mixed feelings about sending it (and the rest of the set) off for grading. All coins appear very nice with no imperfections but I'm certainly no expert on grading proof coins - so all could easily be anywhere between PF 64 and PF 67? On one hand it's pretty cool to have the original proof set with the super bird, on the other I'd really like to get them authenticated and preserved? I'm really having mixed feelings on this, and would like to hear everyone's thoughts. Thanks!
0
Comments
Without seeing photos I doubt that constructive feedback can be provided.
However, your desire to have them "authenticated and preserved" seems to already be covered by the mint packaging.
Have you looked at auction sales to see what each coin has been bringing in various grades?
A quick look gives me the impression that majority of them would need to grade at the upper end of your estimated grade level to come close to justifying the cost of grading.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Perhaps just grade the Superbird quarter... Though that will leave you with a partial proof set. Just does not seem worth investing that much money on coins unless you are sure they will grade in the high money range. Cheers, RickO
Grade the half and quarter.
Paper money eventually returns to its intrinsic value. Zero. Voltaire. Ebay coinbowlllc
Grading is often times over-rated. If the set is undisturbed, original packaging is the way to go, at least for me. I only have the Lincoln Cent, so the others, if in pristine condition, may warrant slabbing if the packaging is beyond help.
I love having some coins that specifically are NOT encased in slabs, as it allows me to see them raw. A nice Capital holder, would protect all of them, be waaaay cheaper, and be a classic way to display them.
Here are some pics of the quarter - not a big fan of the 2 small spots on the obverse.
I like original box proof sets so if it were me I'd leave it in the original packaging. That said, it appears this conversation is moot as it looks like you've already disassembled the set...? I don't think the quarter will grade at a level that would afford you any upside.
RIP Mom- 1932-2012
That's also part of the point, the original proof set is very cool - but not a display piece by any means.
Approximately 1 in 5 52 S proof quarterscare the Superbike variety. Unless a grade of 67 or higher is expected i would just keep it raw.
Successful BST with ad4400, Kccoin, lablover, pointfivezero, koynekwest, jwitten, coin22lover, HalfDimeDude, erwindoc, jyzskowsi, COINS MAKE CENTS, AlanSki, BryceM
Superbird * stupid autocorrect.
Successful BST with ad4400, Kccoin, lablover, pointfivezero, koynekwest, jwitten, coin22lover, HalfDimeDude, erwindoc, jyzskowsi, COINS MAKE CENTS, AlanSki, BryceM
Good thing you corrected yourself quickly before the "nitpickers" called you on it.
Pete
I've had 1952 proof sets and broke one up for the cam half. Unfortunately, I didn't rinse it correctly so I got to send it in twice.
Gumby is correct re superbirds. Not a high demand coin.
The mint boxes need to be preserved.
I would call that one a PR65, probably not worth the grading fees.
I am likely going to be the odd man out here, but I really do not like original packaging. Sure, it might indicate originality but the coins are not protected. They are free to slip around inside the cellophane which causes high point abrasion which looks like might be visible on the cheek and hair of your coin. Cello is also terrible to view the coins through.
Collector, occasional seller
IMO, OGP for 1950-1955 boxed proof sets does justify keeping premium examples of the proof coins (i.e. Gem+++ grade rainbow toners, Cameos or DCAMs) in the OGP.
Buy the coin, not the holder. Remove premium coins and place them in slabs or other holders that will preserve them instead of OGP that can and does cause the coins to deteriorate.
If you want the artifact of an OGP boxed proof set (with the card board box, tissue paper, cello sleeves, staple and proof coins) find a set with 5 run of the mill proof coins.
My experience with 1952 Proof sets has been that the coins in them were made with dies that have been heavily polished. The coins were often bright, but not that sharp. Of course some the coins had be early strikes with sharp details. But if they have so-so details, the grades won’t be high enough to justify the grading fees, which are higher than they used to be.
I would consider putting into a Capital holder to protect coins from cracking cellophane.