I don't buy on the offering anymore because if you are willing to wait a few weeks, you can get the same coin in an NGC 69-grade for even less than the offer price. Modern Coin Mart was selling some over the weekend; I purchased a Grand Canyon NGC-69 for $199.00 and a Mount Hood 2010-P NGC SP-69 for $209.00. A couple of weeks ago, I found a Glacier 2011-P NGC SP-69 for $227.00. For me, it doesn't make sense to buy on the offering anymore, as the demand is so weak. If I purchase a decent quality graded coin, I can be pretty sure it will be problem-free, whereas ordering directly from the Mint, you never know what you are going to get. Plus, a lot of coins on ebay or from some dealers already include shipping. In these low demand situations, patience is very often rewarded.
Yep, sold one of my 25th Ann Sets, which just about paid for four of these. If they remain unpopular, with any luck, the Mint will melt the unsold ones.
eBay completed listings are closer to $300 for SP69's. The only ones that sold for close to $200 are SP64's.
I like Olympic National Park a lot, so I'm interested in the release but it makes no difference to me whether or not it is the uncirculated or bullion version. If I can afford one, when the price comes down, I might buy one. But right now, it's too costly for me.
