I know about the recent SF issue of ASE, but what others were issued for 2012? I can't help thinking that I may have missed something. Thanks.
In addition to the two in the new ASE set, I'm only aware of the ASE bullion coin and the ASE proof coin (W mint mark) for 2012 so far.
they also have the upcoming 2012w burnished unc ASE silver dollar offer on august 2. and the bullion ASE without mintmark from san francisco mint.
And what is the difference between a burnished ASE from San Francisco without a mint mark and a bullion coin? Can you tell the difference without the box?
I'm confused about the US Mint: the SAE proof for 2012 hasn't been released (or isn't priced yet). How do folks get these ahead of that date?
That's the collector bullion piece (sometimes known as burnished) that is being issued in August. It's an uncirculated piece, not a proof.
what's the unburnished ASE without mint mark from the San Francisco mint all about? how is it different than the bullion ASE?
there is no way or very hard to differentiate between two bullion coins. the only way to proof this is minted from san francisco. you at least have to buy 20 coin per tube with the tube being sealed to proof it. or the whole monster box 25 tube or 500 coin also sealed. that means you can not open it up or touch those coins. and remember. the san francisco one is a little bit costlier than philadelphia one. all two type without a mint mark. if you mixed it. you lost some premium attached to san francisco one. now as a collector. we should write or call mint to let them know that they have to include those mint mark for all bullion coins in the future.
It is difficult to show sarcasm on a website. Buying a bullion coin from the San Francisco mint without a mint market at a premium price is like buying swamp land in Florida as vacation property.
That's pretty good, sarcasm-wise! I ,feel you on this though. My own purchase hierarchy is "shiny, real, not too pricey".