Expert: Joe Hylas - 7/13/2008

Question
Joe,
A previous reader questioned the identity of SMS coins. I completely agree with your answer, referring to 65-66-67 mint sets. However, I have slabbed 2005 Kennedy halves and Sacagawea dollars, P and D, MS68 and 69, that PCGS and NGC have labeled as SMS. There is a major price difference between Satin Finish and non. Would you tell me what I have?  Thank you! Richard Hill

Answer
Hello Richard,
Today's Special Mint Sets are just another product offered by the Mint.  In 1965,66 and 67 these were produced because no proof sets were minted.  However, today, the mint strikes both.
Traditionally, the NON-SMS coins are tougher to find in high grade as these were made for circulation and the same care was not used in minting them, hence the higher value.  Satin finish coins should never be found in circualtion as this would mean that they were cut out of mint sets and then inadvertently placed in circulation.

I hope this helped.
Regards
Joe Hylas
www.AllCoins.US