Cost/Benefit Analysis of 1954 proof set in original packaging

erickso1

A couple days ago I picked up a 1954 proof set in the original box with all the coins still in their (assumed) original poly bags with original stapling. The set has been opened but it appears that the coins have never been taken out of their poly bags. Looking through the poly bags it appears the Franklin has some interesting toning going on on the reverse (think a light pinkish/purple covering the entire reverse). I would love to take it out of the poly to get a better look and put into a flip for future viewing pleasure (or send it in for cert if it deserves that). On the other hand I am hesitant to take apart the original packaging and possibly diminishing it's value as a relatively undisturbed proof set. So, question for the board (and my first topic posted), what would you do? Break it out of the poly? Leave it as is? Is taking it out of the poly a no-no (with the assumption being removing the original staple would destroy value)?

Thanks for your thoughts.

Nick

shorecoll

I'm far from an expert but many sets have been broken up for a single coin, that's why originals are scarce. My suggestion would be that if all the coins are decent and you are thinking of slabbing one have them all slabbed in sequential order and keep the materials to go with the set if you ever sell it. At least you have the option of keeping it together longer. Else, wait for someone who actually knows to comment. (Unlike me).

quickwing

The 54 proof set coins would be in cellophane not poly and not stapled. So just enjoy the coins anyway you want to.

Edit: I think the 54 were actually stapled to tissue paper but are in individual cellophane (since they came in a box not an envelope)

dpoole

'54 proof sets were in the brown box and stapled (I know, because that's the first numismatic gift I ever got. My grandmother gave it to me in 1954).

The flat sets started in 1955.

Those staples were notorious for rusting and discoloring the coins. So if the box is open, I'd sure check that out.

keets

1950-1954-----Boxed Sets only, no Flat Pack.
1955 only-----Boxed Sets and Flat Pack.
1956-1964-----Flat Pack only.
1950-1953-----coins in cellophane pouches only, stapled together.
1954-1955-----coins in cellophane pouches or polybags, stapled together.
1950-1955-----all the pouches were wrapped in tissue paper.

Connecticoin

As far as I know, the 54 Proof Set packaging had the coins in cellophane, not poly bags. The poly bags are not original, so I would feel free to put the coins in a nice Capitol Plastics holder or something comparable.

keets

i have had unopened 1954 and 1955 Sets with both types of bags.

erickso1

I've read here that the 1954's were switched to poly bags about halfway through 1954 which is why I'm hesitant to take them out. Whether this source is reliable and accurate or not is another question. If this is bad information provided by this website then great, I can take the coins out and give em a good look over. But if the mint did switch over then it gives me reason to pause.

CommemDude

I thought the sets only came in cellophane but I would go with Keets if he has opened boxes with both types of bags.

I owned a gem matched 1937 set once where the staple had left a large dark toning spot on the half dollar at the periphery, and pretty much destroyed the look of the set.
The most desirable sets IMO are those where the silver coins have matched natural toning ...see if traces of the pink on your half can be found on the other silver coins?

erickso1

The staple doesn't appear to be doing any harm toning wise and the pinkish/light purplish toning is localize to the entire reverse and a little of of the obverse of the Franklin half.

keets

many suggest leaving the Sets intact for added value due to originality which i agree with in principal. the fly-in-the-ointment is that many believed to be original Sets are actually repackaged Sets with the packaging being the only remaining thing that's original. from that perspective i always suggest that 1950-1955 Proof Sets are better protected in Capital plastic type holders and from what i see the pricing isn't much different, they tend to sell based on the condition of the coins. the polybags protect the coins better but rub is still an issue unless they are packed tight in the box and not moved, stored for the long haul. constantly pulling the pouches out of the box to look at the coins will eventually result in damage, even if it's slight rub. the cellophane pouches are murder on the larger coins like the Half-Dollar and Quarter.

don't get stuck on having an original Set of hairlined and downgraded coins. protect the coins and save the packaging in a ziplock baggie.