Home U.S. Coin Forum

PF vs MS coins; Part II

Well my earlier thread got alot more attention than I anticipated. I heard lots of opinions that made me realize that there wasn't as much of a consensus on this topic as I thought.

I decided to focus my next question a bit to see if I can get some opinions on a new collection I'm starting. I'm trying to put together a type set that includes key and semi-key dates as much as possible. I selected this type of collection because I felt the diversity would keep me entertained longer. I also hoped that by including key dates it would prove to be a fairly good investment over the long haul (30+ yrs). For no particular reason I've decided to start with Nickels and 2-cent pieces. As was mentioned in the previous thread, if I were collecting a series I would want to collect either proof or business strikes in the same grade range so that the entire collection had a similar look. Does this same rule apply to type sets or can I mix Proofs and busines strikes without lowering resail value of the entire collection? I was also wondering if generally speaking one type of coin (proofs or business) was a better investment than the other. I realize this probably depends on the series, the individual coin, and the alignment of the stars but I thought I'd just throw that question out there for the hell of it.

MtMan

Comments

  • u can not get all key dates in proof so i would go with business strikes.
    image
  • dorkkarldorkkarl Posts: 12,691 ✭✭✭
    if you want the best of both worlds, collect circulated proofs. rarer than either unc's or high-grade proofs!

    K S
  • If you're looking at getting key dates I really don't think it matters whether you have circulated or proof coins in your collection. The main determinant of the ultimate value of your set will be the eye appeal of each individual coin. I don't think uniformity will be a factor in a set like this IMHO.

    Frank
  • Well key dates are fine and good and all. I go for the common date because I can afford a higher grade coin.

    I'm a proof nut who buys circulating coins for types where no proofs are available. For example the beautiful Standing Liberty Quarters.

    How about a type set of proof nickels? Say in PR 65. The shield with rays would be the expensive one, the Buffalo second most costly.

    Focus has helped me so I would recommend focusing on one metal for a while. That way you can learn more.
  • coinnerdcoinnerd Posts: 492 ✭✭✭


    << <i> the ultimate value of your set will be the eye appeal of each individual coin >>


    This couldn't be more true. Find coins that make you say "WOW" at what ever level you are looking for.
    As far as key dates. You will do well using keys of the popular series. Mercs. Lincolns, buffs, indians the barbers etc. The keys of some series may be tougher to resell. There aren't many people looking for high grade 1886 three cent nickles so a common date will work better.
    Also make sure you document your set so if someone in your family other than you has to sell it they don't get ripped.
  • Thanks for all the input and advice. As I said I will probably focus mostly on nickels for now. I'm throwing in the 2-cent pieces for a little variety, besides even the keys arent that expensive in mint state. What I've done is determine the rarest 4-6 coins from each series. This gives me the flexibility to get any one or two of these for my type set. I think that wherever possible I'm going to go for the business strikes but for more expensive dates ($500+) I will consider proofs if they cost the same or less. As everyone mentioned eye appeal will also be a critical factor in selecting coins.

    MtMan
  • cladkingcladking Posts: 28,701 ✭✭✭✭✭
    Proof coins will always come into favor and then fade away in a continuing
    cycle within each series. When they're in favor the price will be higher rel-
    ative to uncs. The uncs have a steadier demand relative to the series. While
    the series may run hot and cold, the uncs will merely reflect the popularity of
    the series. Right now the proofs are coming back into favor so for investment
    purposes it's probably a good time to buy most of them. Of course this could
    change before you finish the set since the cycle is not regular.
    Tempus fugit.

Leave a Comment

BoldItalicStrikethroughOrdered listUnordered list
Emoji
Image
Align leftAlign centerAlign rightToggle HTML viewToggle full pageToggle lights
Drop image/file