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Proof Sets

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What Are U.S. Mint Proof Sets?

A Proof Set is an annual release by the United States Mint comprised of specially struck coins intended for collectors. Unlike business-strike coins, proof coins undergo multiple strikes with polished dies, producing exceptionally sharp details and brilliant contrast. Proof Sets typically include:

  • Standard circulating denominations: Lincoln cents, Jefferson nickels, Roosevelt dimes, Washington quarters, Kennedy half dollars.

  • Modern additions: Susan B. Anthony dollars (1979–1981, 1999), Sacagawea dollars (2000–present), Presidential dollars (2007–2016), and America the Beautiful quarters (2010–2021).

  • Commemorative issues: In select years, special proofs celebrate anniversaries or notable events (e.g., 50th anniversary of the Kennedy half dollar, 225th anniversary of the U.S. Mint).

Original packaging varies by era—from elegant envelopes in the 1950s–1960s to sleek, hard-plastic ‘blister packs’ and illustrated folders in later decades—always clearly marked with the year and Mint logo.

 

Why Collect Proof Sets?

  1. Premium Striking Quality - Multiple strikes and polished dies yield razor-sharp relief and flawless fields—proof coins are the numismatic industry’s highest‐quality standard.

  2. Complete Annual Issue - One purchase secures every proof coin struck that year, eliminating the need to source individual proofs at varying prices.

  3. Historical & Aesthetic Appeal - Proof Sets document evolving coin designs, special finishes (e.g., “deep cameo”), and Mint anniversaries—ideal for both display and research.

  4. Strong Secondary Demand - Low original mintages and collector enthusiasm often drive steady premiums above original issue prices.

Our Full “Proof Sets” Selection by Decade

Bullion Shark maintains a robust inventory of U.S. Mint Proof Sets. Browse by decade to find the exact year you seek:

  • 1950s–1960s (Classic Silver Era)

    • 1950 • 1951 • … • 1964 (last silver proof)

  • 1970s (Introduction of Clad & Modern Designs)

    • 1971 • 1972 • … • 1979 (includes Susan B. Anthony dollar proof in 1979)

  • 1980s (Expanded Commemoratives)

    • 1980 • 1981 • … • 1988 (e.g., 225th Mint anniversary proof)

  • 1990s (Modernization & Special Trays)

    • 1990 • 1991 • … • 1999 (Susan B. Anthony & Lincoln cent proof release)

  • 2000s (Gold & Silver Commemoratives)

    • 2000 • 2001 • … • 2009 (includes Millennium and Lewis & Clark proofs)

  • 2010s (America the Beautiful & Presidential Series)

    • 2010 • 2011 • … • 2019 (America the Beautiful quarter proofs, Presidential dollar proofs)

  • 2020s (Clad Proofs & Special Releases)

    • 2020 • 2021 • 2022 • 2023 • 2024 • 2025 (year-to-date)

Each listing provides high-resolution photos of both obverse and reverse, detailed product descriptions, and up-to-date market pricing—making it easy to compare years and finishes at a glance.

 

Collectibility Factors & Key Statistics

Noteworthy metrics that influence Proof Set demand and value:

Factor Impact on Collectibility
Original Mintage Lower mintages generally equate to higher scarcity and stronger price appreciation.
Finish Type “Deep Cameo” and “Ultra Cameo” designations command premiums over standard proofs.
Packaging Rarity Early paper envelopes and numbered plastic trays are highly sought after by specialists.
Special Inclusions Bicentennial half dollars, silver proof dollars, and gold commemoratives add appeal.
Grading Census PCGS & NGC population data pinpoint the rarest certified proofs for advanced collectors.

Notable Proof Set Statistics

  • Average Annual Appreciation: Proof Sets have realized an 8% average yearly gain over the past decade, outpacing many bullion and business-strike issues.

  • Low-Mintage Standouts:

    • 1964 Silver Proof Set: Last year of 90% silver; mintage 2,840,630; 

    • 1979 Proof Set: First Susan B. Anthony dollar proof; mintage 1,840,967; 

    • 1995 Proof Set: Last Lincoln cent with “W” mint mark; mintage 1,040,089; 

  • Modern Special Editions:

    • 2016 Proof Set: Final year of Presidential dollar series; mintage 1,220,000; 

    • 2021 Proof Set: Includes centennial American Legion commemorative half dollar; 

  • Grading Highlights (PCGS Census):

    • 1964 MS-67: ~1,200 certified; 1964 deep cameo: ~650 certified.

    • 1979 MS-68: ~2,300 certified; 1979 DCAM: ~1,100 certified.

 

Spotlight on Key-Date Proof Sets

Certain years stand out as “must-owns” for proof enthusiasts:

1964 U.S. Proof Set

  • Why It’s Iconic: Final silver Proof Set before clad transition; all coins at 90% silver.

1979 U.S. Proof Set

  • Notable Firsts: Debut of the Susan B. Anthony dollar in proof finish.

1995 U.S. Proof Set

  • Unique Feature: Contains the only “W” mint mark Lincoln cent in a proof package.

  • Scarcity: Mintage barely over a million, lowest in the 1990s series.

 

Start Your Proof Set Collection Today

Bullion Shark’s Proof Sets page is updated daily—quantities on key-date and low-mintage sets are limited. Browse by decade or search for your target year to:

  • View high-resolution images of each coin

  • Check mintage figures and current market pricing

  • Read detailed product descriptions and grading notes

Experience the artistry and precision of U.S. Mint Proof Sets—shop now and secure these premium collector coins before they sell out!