1966 Special Mint Set
From 1965-1967, Proof Sets looked a little different! Instead of the typical Proof Sets, the United States Mint introduced the Special Mint Set in limited quantities due to the severe coin shortage at the time. These sets had a very limited production and were made specifically for the demands of collectors during this time. Order 1966 special mint set, one of the only three Special Mint Sets that were ever made, from Bullion Shark!
The Special Mint Set was issued from only 1965 to 1967, making these highly sought after by collectors today. The SMS series was issued during these years because there were no proof sets being made at the time. In the mid 1960s there was a severe coin shortage that led to the mint putting a hold on proof set production to focus on producing more coins for circulation. These sets were made specifically to meet the demands of collectors, and each of these sets remain in pristine condition today.
Why This Set is a Must-Have:
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Historical Significance: The 1966 Special Mint Set marked a unique moment in U.S. coinage history. It was the first time since 1955 that a special mint set was issued, featuring coins from a year that witnessed significant social and cultural change across the country.
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Pristine Coins: This set includes uncirculated coins that have been meticulously crafted for quality. Each coin shines with a brilliant finish, reflecting the care and precision that goes into U.S. Mint productions.
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Unique Coin Designs: The set includes a selection of iconic coins:
- Kennedy Half Dollar: A tribute to President John F. Kennedy, this coin features a striking portrait and remains a favorite among collectors.
- Washington Quarter: A classic representation of America’s first president, George Washington.
- Roosevelt Dime: A nod to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, showcasing timeless design and historical relevance.
- Jefferson Nickel: This coin honors the author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson.
- Lincoln Penny: Featuring the beloved portrait of Abraham Lincoln, this coin is a staple in any collection.
Don’t miss the chance to own the 1966 Special Mint Set—a celebration of American heritage that will enrich your collection and captivate your imagination.
Why Collect The 1966 Special Mint Set?
- The 1966 SMS had a low mintage of only 2,261,583 sets.
- These sets are all in pristine condition.
- Each coin features the special SMS finish, unique to SMS coins.
- Each set comes with 5 coins total, one example of every standard issue coin in 1966 with the SMS finish.
- The set comes in the original U.S. Mint SMS packaging.
1966 Special Mint Set Coin Details:
1966 Lincoln cent: 95% copper, 5% zinc
1966 Jefferson nickel: 75% copper, 25% nickel
1966 Roosevelt dime: 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper center
1966 Washington quarter: 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper center
1966 Kennedy half dollar: 40% silver, 60% copper
Finish: Special SMS finish
Mintage: 2,261,583 sets
History and Value: The 1966 Special Mint Set was issued by the United States Mint as a response to a shortage of coins. These sets were created to meet the demand for coins to be included in annual mint sets, which typically included one of each denomination struck at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints. However, there were no 1965-dated coins produced for circulation due to a large stockpile of coins from previous years. To fill this gap, the U.S. Mint produced the Special Mint Sets.
The 1966 Special Mint Set included uncirculated specimens of the five denominations (cent, nickel, dime, quarter, and half dollar) These coins were struck with a higher quality finish compared to regular circulating coins but were not as meticulously produced as proof coins.
The coins in the 1966 Special Mint Set can vary in quality, and some collectors seek out sets with coins exhibiting attractive toning or minimal imperfections. These sets are popular among collectors of modern U.S. coinage and are often sought after for their historical significance and unique characteristics.
You may also like: 1965 (SMS) Special Mint Set - 5pc, 1968 US Proof Set OGP - The Return Of The Proof Set, 1976 Bicentennial Proof & Uncirculated Silver Set in OGP, United States Bicentennial Silver Uncirculated Set, The Ultimate Proof Set Collection - 10 Sets, 1978 Eisenhower Dollar, Bicentennial silver Proof Set.
