Expert: Joe Hylas - 1/12/2006

Question
When did the US mints begin making proof and mint sets and does it hurt the value of an older set if it has been removed from its original packaging and placed in after-market plastic containers for display? Thank you.

Answer
Hi Don,
The mint has always produced proof coins, however official proof sets were not introduced until 1936 for the general public.  Prior to that, you needed to know someone to get every denomination proof coin for a particular year as these were normally reserved for dignitaries.
The 1936 set was issues at $1.89

Mint Sets were introduced in 1947.  The total face value was $4.46 and they sold for $4.87
As with most mint products, or collectibles in general, original packaging is preferred.  However, finding the older sets in the origional packs is a real find.  Most sets from the era of 1955 or earlier are in aftermarket packages.  So, to answer your question, as long as the coins don't get damaged, the value is not diminished.  If you can save the orig. packaging, that's even better as it to has value and collectors would pay a nice premium for the empty boxes!
I hope this helped.

Regards,
Joe Hylas