Expert: PAPAJACK - 3/31/2005

Question
Can you tell me if the US Mint Liberty coin set with silver dollar, gold $5, and silver half dollar is a "PROOF" set.  Nowhere in the literature that came with my set says it is a proof set but the coins are encapsulated in hard plastic rounds in a nice blue velvet case in a box with an outside sleve.  I ordered it directly from the US Mint in 1986.  Sets I see online indicate it is a PROOF set.  Is it?  Thanks so much for your help.

Answer
Hello Alice,

This set was issued in both versions (PROOF and UNCIRCULATED) as a 3 piece set. The paperwork that comes with the set should state that the coins are in Proof Condition or Brilliant Uncirculated. But please read on and use the description below to decide for yourself.

Without knowing the difference on the two types look for the mint marks on the coin. The Half dollar first, it will have the mint letter between the SUN and the last letter T in the word TRUST. If it is an S it is a proof coin with Mirrored background and frosted images. If it is a D mint mark it is the UNCIRCULATED version, this looks like a  modern newly struck coin you receive from the bank.  Both are in plastic holders for protection.

Next the Dollar Coin has the Mint Mark below the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" and if it is an S it is a PROOF coin. Again having mirrored background fields and frosted raised images. If it is a P mint mark it is the UNCIRCULATED version.

The Five dollar gold can be judged by the look of the first two, does it have the MIRROR-LIKE reflective background and frosty raised devices? Or the Whole surface have the satin-like surface of an Uncirculated coin. Both were made at the West Point Mint and have the same W Mint Mark.

Let me know if you need more information.

Please remember to rate this answer. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Good Luck

PapaJack