Coin and Paper Money Collecting/US Mint Uncirculated

Advertisement

Expert: - 7/29/2008


Question
Should older 60's, 70's US Mint sets in the original cellophane packaging show signs of significant wear, e.g. hair worn smooth on Washington's head, steps smooth on memorials on reverse, etc.? I recently purchased via an online dealer an entire set and the amount of obvious wear concerns me.

Thanks.

Answer
Hi Lee,

Mint sets are merely coins minted for circulation that are prpackaged at the mint, hence they remain uncirculated.
Since dies are not changed as often as with proof coins, each striking takes its' toll on the dies and details vanish.
It sounds like your coins were struck when the dies were old.  That does not mean that they are not uncirculated, merely that they lack all the details of a well struck coin.

Regards
Joe Hylas
www.AllCoins.US

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Joe Hylas

Expertise

Numismatic professional with over 30 years experience can answer your questions about US coins, their values, how best to sell them and where to buy them. Interested in starting a collection? Find out which areas are undervalued and how to acquire those coins at the best price.

Experience

Ex-Head Precious Metals trader for Deak-Perera International with 42 offices worldwide. Industry experience since 1978. Has worked co-operatively with US Mint, Royal Canadian Mint, Austrian Mint, Chamber of Mines of South Africa, World Gold Council and Platinum Guild International. Professioanl numismatist specializing in US Coins. Always buying collections, will travel if size of collection warrants. Website: www.AllCoins.US

Organizations
PCGS, NGC, Rotary

Publications
Physician's Money Digest

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Awards and Honors
Paul Harris Fellow

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.