Easy question

Skeety

Could someone please detail the pros and cons of collecting mint sets vs. proof sets? This newby would really like to know. Thanks...

Placid

Yes don't do it
Stick with your icon.

nwcs

The pros and cons are largely a matter of personal choice and desire.

Steve27

I love "easy questions" please ask one. Mint sets are cheaper to buy, and hopefully contain better examples than pocket change (although not necessarily true). Recently, they have also provided coins which never reached circulation such as the 2002 Sacs. Proof sets have nicer looking coins, cost more than mint sets, and come in two flavors (clad and silver). Even though proof sets are made for collectors, many collectors only collect business strikes and therefore are turned-off by proof coins. Thus the bottom line is to collect what you like.

redhott

I agree. Don't do it. Historically, collecting has taken more effort than mailing a check. Hunt for something you really want, that's why you work for that money in the first place isn't it?

Skeety

I was trying to determine which set, the mint or proof, would contain better individual pieces. I was wondering which set would contain better pieces to have sent off for grading, not necessarily just holding onto as a "mint" set.

Russ

Skeety,

First of all, welcome aboard! Got proof JFKs?

As far as what to collect; what do you like? That's what really matters. In moderns, I collect proofs because I find them more attractive than their business strike counterparts. It's all a matter of personal preference, and you're the only one who can decide that.



<< <i>I was trying to determine which set, the mint or proof, would contain better individual pieces. >>



Proof sets invariably contain better coins if by better you mean higher numerical grade. Proof sets are far more carefully handled than mint sets.

Russ, NCNE

CarlWohlforth

Mint state and proof are not comparable. Proofs are made especially for collectors using different dies, polished planchets and other techniques. So which is better is a matter of individual taste.

LucyBop

Colect em both, But I would avoid sets with franklin half dollars.... Let other collectors get dupped into buying those eyesores...

coppercoins

Hmm....mint sets vs. proof sets....

Well, as has been proven in recent years, mint sets are really nothing more than uncirculated coins that are pretty much the same animals you could get from your bank or neighborhood coin store for a few cents each. Why pay extra for the envelope and plastic? Proof sets are never available in change, these coins are specially minted for collectors, so paying a little extra for them is, in my opinion, worthwhile. The coins are obviously different from those in change, and the holders they come in are usually nicer than the mint sets (save the 50s and early 60s).

Skeety

Thanks for the input guys. As for the Franklin's, I do stay away from the ugly things...just kidding.

merz2

Skeety
Now you've done it.Lucy will be out for your hair. pun intended.You shouldn't talk about her man like that.