Expert: Troy Thoreson - 10/14/2009

Question
Greetings Troy and thank you from a fellow 'expert'(tig welding).
I have an old coin collection I started 40+ years ago when I was a young-un. Recently 2 Grandparents have passed and both had nice coin collections which I am trying to assess.
We have 2 US special mint sets 1966 & '67, as well as 3 Proof sets from 1968, 1973 and 1975.
I read about their values online, finding bestcoin.com as being a helpful source and became confused about these sets.
The prices for the full sets was a bit disappointing for especially the proof sets.
However the prices for the individual proof coins was impressive.
My local coin dealer told me if that was the case, which he thinks there is a typo somewhere, he would "break-the-set" and offer them individually, because he said they were as proof-perfect as they can get.

Answer
Hello Dean,

It can be confusing especially when it comes to modern coins.  Proof sets from the mid 60's to late 90's are generally cheap - like really inexpensive.  We sell many sets under $10, some for around $5.00.  The truth is that there are millions of proof sets out there - most have really nice coins in them.  Some people get these coins certified and then get big money.  At the end of the day it is not cost effective to break coins out and have them graded.  For now I recommend seeking out the best sets and buying them on the cheap.  Maybe someday in the future (5 to 30 years from now) there will be a real market for high grade clad examples.

Yes, the following is a canned response designed to help the novice collector with general information.  If you need more explanation or you feel my answer is to short, please call me or reply with a more specific question.  I own and operate an active coin shop and I apologize in advance if my answer is short, to the point, or lacking detail.  Again, please reply or if I missed something or if you need more information.

Information given about values is general and determined by current market conditions and/or the price of metals.  Prices and values are subject to change.

Please remember to never clean coins, this can damage and lessen their value.  Also, soft plastics can contain harmful chemicals that can react with coins over time.  Try using inert materials when storing coins.  Plus, it is always a good idea to store coins in a safe.  The safe should not be exposed to the elements and should not be up against a wall to the outside.  These are just a few tips I have learned over the years to help keep your collection in top shape.

If you found this information helpful please nominate me for category expert in coins.  If coming through Los Banos, CA please feel free to look us up at Thoreson Numismatics, 947 6th Street, Los Banos, CA  93635.  209-826-0777, email troy@aucpro.com.   Please remember that we are always in the market to buy and sell coins, currency, tokens, and medals both U.S. and World.  We are also licensed to buy scrap gold & platinum jewelry.  

Thanks for the question,


Troy Thoreson, President
Auc Pro, Inc.
Thoreson Numismatics
www.aucpro.com