Another Lovely Original 1942 Proof Set
FlyingAl
Posts: 4,310 ✭✭✭✭✭
Some of you may remember my last 1942 original Proof set:
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/1092940/an-original-1942-proof-set#latest
This is a similar set, but in its own way not quite as special at that one, and yet more special in its own way. I'll lead with some short history, and then post the set itself.
Proof sets of this era were usually packaged in a cellophane sleeve, with an order stapled together at the top. Traditionally, a purchaser would buy one of each coin, for a "set". The mint did not require this, and theoretically a person could order 50 halves. They were then packaged into a box or felt lined envelope, like the examples below.
It is important to note that the Mint simply grabbed whatever coins they had on hand that day to fulfill an order. Usually, the term "original set" is applied to a group of five coins that have stayed together since leaving the Mint. This can be in the original cellophane, or in some cases, coin boards where tone patterns clearly show the coins were stored together over time. Some sets are more original than others (in cello would be preferred), but this set does appear to be original. 
GC image
DLRC image
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Once packaged, the coins were sent to buyers around the world. Many buyers chose to put coins into Dansco style holders, and this set was no exception. These holders sometimes damaged the coins, and in other cases created beautiful blazing color and tone. Original sets often came in much higher grades than coins that were separated, likely simply due to the lack of handling of the coins. Most high grade examples show the chalky tone of cellophane or the pastels of Dansco style holders.
Without further ado, here is the set! It is contained in its Wayte Raymond style board, and the tone similarities are immediately apparent. Enjoy!
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Half - I grade this coin PR68+. I saw this coin and my eyes almost fell out of my head. This coin is the single most perfect 1936-1942 Proof I have ever seen, and I've seen a few 68 CACs, to include I owning of the 68CAC halves. Original purples and pastels line the rims, giving way to blast white centers. Technically, no hairlines appear to be present. A small spot lies in the left obverse, where it has since toned over. This may be the most incredible 1942 half I have personally seen. It is absolutely the star of the set, and in my opinion is what makes this group so special. 
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Quarter - I grade this coin PR68. Another hairline free coin, with only a few minor spots to drop the grade. Beautiful pastels line the date area and a slight blue tone is present on the reverse. 
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Dime - I grade this coin PR67. Deep electric colors rim the obverse, showcasing the beauty of this tone pattern. A small spot is noted on the obverse, reducing the numerical grade. Overall, a lovely coin with only a few small hairlines behind Liberty's cap. A similar blue tone to the quarter shines on the reverse of this dime. A slight strike issue common to 1942 Proof dimes is noted, leaving the bands filled.
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Nickel - I grade this coin PR66. Spotting reduces the grade significantly. Otherwise, a lovely example of a popular type with few hairlines. 
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Cent - I grade this coin PR65+RB. Spots also reduce the grade. Two vertical hairlines are noted around the date area, but are not distracting. A slight tone is present both obverse and reverse, and is rather attractive. 
Comments
What a lovely and beautiful set. Nice pics too. Congrats!
chopmarkedtradedollars.com
Nice write-up and beautiful coins. I especially like the obverse rim toning on the half.
Cool
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That sure is a special set !
Great job on the photos too.....
Awesome set! Always envious of your photos!
I never realized that Mercury proofs could come without full bands.
I remember one time when somebody came into the coin shop with one of those old boxes with two groups of coins inside. Ten 1942 Proof cents in ten cellophane sleeves with the ends folded over and stapled, and ten 1942-P Proof nickel packaged the same way. I wish we had taken photos before we inventoried them separately.
I too favor the half and it's obverse rim toning.
That’s a gorgeous original set. You should submit all five coins together.
Awesome set! I also really enjoyed your descriptions of each coin, they mostly seem spot on to me, the exception being I believe the Jefferson will be dropped to 65 by the spotting. Thanks for sharing.
Nice!
That's a simply beautiful set Buddy! Love the shots. Agree the half is fantastic.