Franklin fans, I can use some schooling on proofs

gyocomgd

I've acquired several proof sets from the early 50s, all in the original box. They're terrific! There's a consensus opinion that I shouldn't break them up and I've decided not to do that, but I've been intrigued by gazing at the Franklins through the cellophane wrappers. Grading must be more difficult for coins that have been handled or bumped around; what are a couple of key areas when assessing? I understand and recognize cameos, but its seems the lines separating PR60 to PR70 must get pretty thin and even more subjective than for business strikes.
Any quick tips would be appreciated.
Thanks----Guy

Myqqy

key things to look for when examining proof franklins: Check closely for hairlines, which can quickly drop a coin's grade. Spotting and hazing are also pretty commonplace. Do any have any cameo contrast? Do you have pics?

gyocomgd

One is a very good cameo. No use making the effort to photograph them through the cellophane--hopeless.

sinin1

you are correct in saying they are difficult to see through celophane


playing with coins while 5 sleeves still are stabled can cause hairlines


CAM and DCAM coins are rare but valuable

so many sets have been broken, the silver boxed original sets will only go up in value


usually the half is worth about half the value of the set


Tomaska wrote a book on silver proofs from the 50's and 60's



you probably do not have any 69's or 70's

look at some pictures - many have a nice purple peripheral toning