New 1999 Proof set, already toning =(

ChrisMiller

I bought a 1999 proof set from someone on ebay and much to my surprise, all the coins are already toning. The obverse on all of the coins have a yellow tint that is starting from the outer edge and working its way in. The cent has weird bit of toning on the reverse that looks like a streak going from bottom top to bottom.

I read on the us mint site that alot of these were being destroyed because of damage that was done while storing them at one of the branch mints. I wonder if this was one of the victims?

Do you think I should keep the coins for my collection, or look for a better set? I basically bought them so that I could have a complete set of proof state quarters, but im not sure what to think about the toning yet. Some people like toning, I have never really given it much thought. I guess I always like the coin to look natural, with no coloration of any type.

Thanks

airplanenut

My sets are in a safe that is extra dry and they are doing well- you should be able to find a bright white set and keep it that way- if he didn't say it was toned, I would take him up on his return policy most definitely.

Jeremy

robertpr

I've decided to start looking for these sets. Can you scan it? Is the toning smooth and even, or is it blotchy? I'm thinking if I get a few of these and put them away a couple of years I might have some very nice coins down the road. Is this a clad set or a silver set?

Russ

There have been quite a few reports around here about the 1999 sets toning, you're not alone.

Russ, NCNE

littlewicher

This may seem a little off topic, but not completely. Has anyone else's circulation state quarters started toning in the 50 state quarter program holders? Some of mine are turning a pretty gold color. Maybe someday they'll be rainbows!

ChrisMiller

The toning is very light, and smooth except on the reverse of the cent. It has a streak across it. The others just have a hint of yellow toning, sort of like a band around the permiter of both the obverse and reverse.

I want to return it to the guy, but at the same time I want to just hold onto it and buy another. Not exactly sure yet.

I will try to get a shot of them soon.

ChrisMiller

Oh and its a clad set.

TWQG

Great timing on the thread. I just pulled my 99 clad proof sets last night and 2 of 8 sets have pretty amber rim toning evenly on all the coins except the cent which has multicolored center on the reverse. The other 6 sets are white. They were all stored in the same place with desiccant. The two toned sets were together in one shipping box so I think it may have something to do with when the sets were ordered. I'll be watching to see how the color progresses.

ChrisMiller

Sean,
That sounds like what I have to the "T". The reverse on the cent is trying to form a complete circle in the center, but right now its more like a half moon. The other coins have what I would consider a yellow or gold band around the rim.

Cam40

I was going to say,if the set was the silver set,and you didnt like the toning,they could be dipped back white,no prob.But you say its the clad set......I,ve never dipped a clad proof so I dont know if its ok to do so.
I would think not though.
Dont dip them,is my advice.

Cam40

They tone easily because the holders they used are nowhere near air tight,so the outside air,with all its
chemicals,reacts with the alloy that is the coin.So the coin tones alot more rapidly that it otherwise would,if the holder was more air tight.
Monster rainbows in their infancy?
Baby rainbows.

IvanOnly

This happened to my 2000 Silver Proof set. The dime and all five Quarters have a light brown toning on the head and necks. It actually looks nice.
The reason was, the Proof case was not sealed, I opened it with ease.

robertpr

Actually the clads will dip out fine if the toning is light.

Just don't dilute the Jeweluster...dip in and immediately pull out as soon as coin is immersed, then rinse thoroughly.

ChrisMiller

Well the person I bought it from offered to exchange it for me for a good set with no toning. I think I may go ahead and do it. I bought the 1999, 2000, and 2001 sets from him for around $90 but he wants $49 just for the 1999 set. As much as id like to hold onto the toned set, I don't have the extra money to buy another.

baccaruda

my 1999 silver proof set ISN'T toning