Expert: Troy Thoreson - 12/30/2009

Question
From what I read the 2009 lincoln penny in satin finish is only available from the 2009 Mint set.  Why due I see them in blue and red pkgs (4 coins each) selling on Ebay.  Are the coins shipped from the US mint in these holders not in album with the one dollar coin. Are people breaking up the set and selling the one cent coins separate from the one dollar or were the blue and red packages purchased separately.

Thanks for your help in clarifying this for me.
Dan

Answer
Hi Dan,

Business strike coins in satin are only available in the 2009 Mint set.  Another interesting fact is that both the P&D cents in this set are made of 95% copper.  Only the 2009 Mint set contains business strike 95% copper cents.  The coins in the set are housed in a blue and red holders, blue for the P Mint coins and red for the D Mint coins.  People do cut them out the cents and sell them as singles or sets.  I am recommending people purchase the entire mint set while they are available direct from the U.S. Mint.  Note that satin mint sets started in 2005, but this is the first year a mostly copper cent has been made since 1982.  The 2009 copper version of the cent is also available in proof, but this coin is being produced in great numbers compared to other recent proof cents and should be avoided.

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 two active coin shops 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 or TNC Coins located at 118 West Main Street, in Turlock, CA  95380  209-668-3682.   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