Home U.S. Coin Forum

Time Frame for Completing a Date/MM Set?

How long have you been working on completing a date/mm set? ....and do you think you will finish it?

What we've got here is failure to communicate.....

Successful BST xactions w/PCcoins, Drunner, Manofcoins, Rampage, docg, Poppee, RobKool, and MichealDixon.

Comments

  • Insider2Insider2 Posts: 14,452 ✭✭✭✭✭

    Depends on the series, the average grade, and the size of your wallet. If you can be more specific, you'll probably get some replies.

  • FranklinHalfAddictFranklinHalfAddict Posts: 688 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 17, 2018 9:18AM

    Ive been working on my circ strike Franklin registry for about 5 years now. It’s approx 60% complete.
    Obviously that set can be completed it a single day if you don’t care about grade or what the coins look like.
    But then that eliminates one of the best parts of putting together a set, the hunt.
    And yes, someday my set will be “complete.” But I will most likely be upgrading it for many years after that last date/mm is purchased.

  • tommy44tommy44 Posts: 2,319 ✭✭✭✭✭

    Ditto what @insider2 said.

    I've been working on my $5 Lib date/mm set off and on for about 45 years and never expect to finish it (unless I pick up a 1854-S and 1875 from China).

    On the other hand, I picked up a complete 97 piece Morgan Dollar set (no varieties or 1895 proof) in one full swoop as one lot in the Kagin's 1977 ANA auction sale in Atlanta. I was able to merge it with another complete set that I had put together over the previous 10 or 12 years and sold the "extras" to finance other interests.

    it's crackers to slip a rozzer the dropsy in snide

  • LindeDadLindeDad Posts: 18,766 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 17, 2018 11:39AM

    Well I have done a few and sold a few. They were all different.
    Biggest Washinton Quarters 1932 to 2009
    Shortest Peace Dollars.
    Cirulated for all.
    I never really looked at the calender when doing sets though, so time frame varied with the set and the wallet at that time.

  • messydeskmessydesk Posts: 20,307 ✭✭✭✭✭

    I've been working on my Morgan date/mm set for a few years. Before that, I was only buying varieties I wanted and wasn't officially working on the date/mm set. I could finish it tomorrow with very respectable coins if I felt like spending all that cash now, but I don't, so I won't. Other date/mm sets can't be completed that way.

  • Bankerbob56Bankerbob56 Posts: 1,399 ✭✭✭

    @Insider2 said:
    Depends on the series, the average grade, and the size of your wallet. If you can be more specific, you'll probably get some replies.

    That isn't germane. I'm asking about any series one may choose to collect with an interest in completing a complete year/mm set. If you're working on Mercury dimes, Roosevelts, or whatever, how long are you contemplating it will take to complete it?

    What we've got here is failure to communicate.....

    Successful BST xactions w/PCcoins, Drunner, Manofcoins, Rampage, docg, Poppee, RobKool, and MichealDixon.
  • Bankerbob56Bankerbob56 Posts: 1,399 ✭✭✭

    I'm SLOWLY putting together an unc set of Indian quarter eagles. I'm quite particular, so I've been working on it for several years... I hope to complete it, but one never knows when your "time is up". My intent is to complete it! Lol....

    What we've got here is failure to communicate.....

    Successful BST xactions w/PCcoins, Drunner, Manofcoins, Rampage, docg, Poppee, RobKool, and MichealDixon.
  • TheRavenTheRaven Posts: 4,148 ✭✭✭✭

    I have been working on a Barber Half set in VG grade for years now. Started the Quarters in the same grade. Unlikely to finish the quarters however ever. I am happy if I go to a show and add 1 piece to those two sets. If i get multiple coins at one show I am thrilled.

    Collection under construction: VG Barber Quarters & Halves
  • Insider2Insider2 Posts: 14,452 ✭✭✭✭✭

    @Bankerbob56 asked: "How long have you been working on completing a date/mm set? ....and do you think you will finish it?"

    I replied: "Depends on the series, the average grade, and the size of your wallet. If you can be more specific, you'll probably get some replies."

    @Bankerbob56 responded: "That isn't germane. I'm asking about ANY SERIES one may choose to collect with an interest in completing a complete year/mm set. If you're working on Mercury dimes, Roosevelts, or whatever, how long are you contemplating it will take to complete it?

    I apologize for my stupid ridiculous response to the question. For over forty years I've been working on a complete set of Spanish Colonial 2 Reales from all countries, mints, and assayers. At the moment I have three coins and I don't expect to complete it. Hope this answer was more germane. :)

  • TreashuntTreashunt Posts: 6,747 ✭✭✭✭✭

    Time Frame for Completing a Date/MM Set?

    My Barber dimes?

    Finished 9 sets, G thru betters ones, But, still updating my album with higher grades. Probably never finish

    Quarters?

    Finished it, finally with a nice 01 S, but other wise, still up grading my primary set.
    Probably never finish

    Half dollars?

    Several sets done, but... you guessed it... still up grading my primary set.

    and: Probably never finish

    Frank

    BHNC #203

  • TreashuntTreashunt Posts: 6,747 ✭✭✭✭✭

    OH, and Bust $1/2's-- never finish, but so much fun

    Frank

    BHNC #203

  • 3stars3stars Posts: 2,294 ✭✭✭✭✭

    From 1 day to never...

    Previous transactions: Wondercoin, goldman86, dmarks, Type2
  • CoinPhysicistCoinPhysicist Posts: 603 ✭✭✭✭

    Seems like this question strongly depends on how deep your pockets are. You could probably finish an amazing set relatively quickly if you can just offer moon money for every coin. But to do it at reasonable cost will take a lot longer.

    Successful transactions with: wondercoin, Tetromibi, PerryHall, PlatinumDuck, JohnMaben/Pegasus Coin & Jewelry, CoinFlip, and coinlieutenant.

  • Insider2Insider2 Posts: 14,452 ✭✭✭✭✭

    @totally said:
    Seems like this question strongly depends on how deep your pockets are. You could probably finish an amazing set relatively quickly if you can just offer moon money for every coin. But to do it at reasonable cost will take a lot longer.

    That's not germane. Get it? LOL. o:)

  • david3142david3142 Posts: 3,600 ✭✭✭✭✭

    I have been working on my Morgan set for about 16 years and I have about 13-16 coins to go depending on how many varieties I choose to include. I plan to finish it in about 4 years but will probably keep upgrading forever.

  • jmlanzafjmlanzaf Posts: 36,629 ✭✭✭✭✭

    I have no interest in any date/mm set. I haven't since I was a newbie collector with Whitman albums.

  • sparky64sparky64 Posts: 7,048 ✭✭✭✭✭

    I always avoided the date/mm way of collecting then one day I became one in the Washington Quarter series.
    I'm doing the basic 1932-1964 set MS & Proof.
    I've been at it for about 4 years and a little over half way there.
    I intend to finish it but I've accepted the fact that I'll have to settle for circulated grades on a few.

    "If I say something in the woods and my wife isn't there to hear it.....am I still wrong?"

    My Washington Quarter Registry set...in progress

  • StoogeStooge Posts: 4,673 ✭✭✭✭✭

    I've been working on a 1946-64 Silver Roosevelt dime set in MS66FB and higher for the past 3+ yrs. I have 4 dimes to go to complete this and I have been upgrading some as I go and will continue to do so until I just cannot find the coins, or $$$ becomes a problem.


    Later, Paul.
  • rainbowroosierainbowroosie Posts: 4,875 ✭✭✭✭

    I’ve been working on my MS Roosie set since 1984. Still looking for anything that will improve it.

    "You keep your 1804 dollar and 1822 half eagle -- give me rainbow roosies in MS68."
    rainbowroosie April 1, 2003
  • amwldcoinamwldcoin Posts: 11,269 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 17, 2018 8:14PM

    This is a great topic in a way!

    I remember when I started on my quest to put together sets of Barber Half's in every grade from F12-XF45 in PCGS holders. When I started it was impossible as there were many that didn't exist in some of the grades. I persisted and made several 1st for the grade and finished!

    The populations have since exploded as I was paying what it took to get a coin I needed in the grade! PCGS should owe me a Thank You for the plethora of Circ. Barber Half's they have received due to my endeavor! Yes I do think I was a driving force in having mid grade Barber Half's graded! The F-XF populations have more than doubled since I started! I am always paying what it takes to improve the look of my sets!

    Now I just need to get them to treat me fairly on my quest to complete my AU set in 58+!

  • WalkerfanWalkerfan Posts: 9,747 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 17, 2018 9:55PM

    I started my MS Walker registry set in 2005 and then was inactive for about 3 years. I started up again in 2009 and I'm almost done... I only need three coins out of 65. Lately, I have been distracted with other series such as Morgans and the like. I have also been buying duplicate Walkers, when I see nice examples, especially in old holders. I have also been spending money on other things, too, but I'm regaining my focus again, now. I'm going to finish, for sure, probably in no more than 3 years, if the right coins come along. It is difficult to remain disciplined for so long but it is time to finally realize my goal once and for all.

    Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

    My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

    https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

  • rickoricko Posts: 98,724 ✭✭✭✭✭

    All parameters of coins (series, grade, appearance etc.) are germane to collecting... Each collector decides on the levels and quality of their personal collection. Cost and availability are always factors in completing sets and are also germane to the individual. One must be more specific when asking such a question. As the answers above reveal, with enough money, you could complete a set in one purchase.... or, it could take a lifetime. Cheers, RickO

  • Bankerbob56Bankerbob56 Posts: 1,399 ✭✭✭

    Agree Ricko, but the intent of the topic was not meant to be hypothetical. Based on a collector's specific goals, how long have/will you be working on a set. If you wanted a circulated, or a mint state 66 set, what are your expectations? As you stated, "each collector decides on the levels and quality...." Based on those specific decisions, what are your expectations, experiences???

    What we've got here is failure to communicate.....

    Successful BST xactions w/PCcoins, Drunner, Manofcoins, Rampage, docg, Poppee, RobKool, and MichealDixon.
  • savitalesavitale Posts: 1,409 ✭✭✭✭✭

    I’ve been working on a seated dime set for 30 years, if you include taking 20 years off in the middle. This is a tough set to complete if you have limited funds and you are trying to maintain some consistency of grade and quality.

  • OldIndianNutKaseOldIndianNutKase Posts: 2,715 ✭✭✭✭✭

    Mostly, I focus on only proof coin date sets. Best strikes and technical condition and avoids a number of overly expensive branch mint rarities. And very pleasnt on the eye.

    OINK

  • Bankerbob56Bankerbob56 Posts: 1,399 ✭✭✭

    @Insider2 said:
    @Bankerbob56 asked: "How long have you been working on completing a date/mm set? ....and do you think you will finish it?"

    I replied: "Depends on the series, the average grade, and the size of your wallet. If you can be more specific, you'll probably get some replies."

    @Bankerbob56 responded: "That isn't germane. I'm asking about ANY SERIES one may choose to collect with an interest in completing a complete year/mm set. If you're working on Mercury dimes, Roosevelts, or whatever, how long are you contemplating it will take to complete it?

    I apologize for my stupid ridiculous response to the question. For over forty years I've been working on a complete set of Spanish Colonial 2 Reales from all countries, mints, and assayers. At the moment I have three coins and I don't expect to complete it. Hope this answer was more germane. :)

    Hey Insider2, no reason to be caustic is there?!? I get the whole idea about deep pockets! If $$ wasn't an issue, you could probably complete ALOT of sets with a few days, if not hours!!! But that's not realistic is it? For some collectors, a circulated set of Memorial cents may be a challenge.... for others a set of PCGS MS67+ CAC graded Roosevelt dimes could be had rather quickly. The question was intended to be based on the responder's set of criteria, not some hypothetical scenario!!!

    What we've got here is failure to communicate.....

    Successful BST xactions w/PCcoins, Drunner, Manofcoins, Rampage, docg, Poppee, RobKool, and MichealDixon.
  • Insider2Insider2 Posts: 14,452 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 19, 2018 2:01PM

    @Bankerbob56 said:

    @Insider2 said:
    @Bankerbob56 asked: "How long have you been working on completing a date/mm set? ....and do you think you will finish it?"

    I replied: "Depends on the series, the average grade, and the size of your wallet. If you can be more specific, you'll probably get some replies."

    @Bankerbob56 responded: "That isn't germane. I'm asking about ANY SERIES one may choose to collect with an interest in completing a complete year/mm set. If you're working on Mercury dimes, Roosevelts, or whatever, how long are you contemplating it will take to complete it?

    I apologize for my stupid ridiculous response to the question. For over forty years I've been working on a complete set of Spanish Colonial 2 Reales from all countries, mints, and assayers. At the moment I have three coins and I don't expect to complete it. Hope this answer was more germane. :)

    Hey Insider2, no reason to be caustic is there?!? I get the whole idea about deep pockets! If $$ wasn't an issue, you could probably complete ALOT of sets with a few days, if not hours!!! But that's not realistic is it? For some collectors, a circulated set of Memorial cents may be a challenge.... for others a set of PCGS MS67+ CAC graded Roosevelt dimes could be had rather quickly. The question was intended to be based on the responder's set of criteria, not some hypothetical scenario!!!

    Many collectors here are working on sets of all types and price levels. Your OP raised an interesting question - at least to me. When I saw you had no replies I suggested that you be more specific. As it turned out, many folks started posting about their sets. At the shows I attend several dealers have complete sets of 20th century coins for sale. As you posted, pull out a wallet and the completed set is yours.

    As for caustic, it is in my nature as a curmudgeon. My :) at the end was directed to you as I figured "germane" was either a flower or breakfast cereal!

  • ParadisefoundParadisefound Posts: 8,588 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 19, 2018 10:17PM

    @Bankerbob56
    I was thinking along this line a few days back and contemplating whether I should start either Buffalo Nickel or Washie Mint set.
    The thinking process involved the time frame I would commit & the discipline requires and how it would weave into the future as part of my retirement (it is still years to come). I probably won't give that much thoughts if I were in my 30's ;)
    IMHO a completion depends on the time allotment along with individual budget. First thing first......I am waiting for my Buff book to start.

Leave a Comment

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