First, want to thank you all for the educaion I'm getting here. It's really helpful. A couple more questions if i may. I've come across a few proof set years (Like 1981) that have 2 sets for the year and one is called "type2" What is the difference between type 2 qand the other set. Also I see Key dates referred to often in this forum. What exactly are key dates? Thanks for all this help cj
I can't help with the proof set question, but "key dates" are the dates for each particular series that are the most valuable - usually but not always because of low mintages. An example is the 1921S walking liberty half, listed at $8,000 in MS60 in my several year old Red Book. Many WLs are listed at $32-60 in MS60.
There are two types of mint marks on the 1981 and 1979 proof sets. The clear S type and the Filled S type. If you have a red book there's a picture of the different type of mint marks by the Susan B. Anthony dollar page. Lou
Hey sabatca, the fact that you are asking these questions sure helps myself as well. At least you know enough about this hobby to ask questions without looking foolish. I think these were real good questions and I also appreciate the answers.
Sabatka, Say you want to collect Lincoln cents with the wheat ears reverse. The key coins to the set are 1909-S V.D.B.; 1914- D; 22 no D. The semi-keys are 1909-S and 1931-S. The rest of the coins are referred to as common dates. Some are harder to find than others like the 1924-D and the 1922-D, But still condidered common. On some mint set coins, proof coins and general circulation coins the S mint mark became filled and it was necessary to remake the S so it was clear. Your Type 2 is worth substantially more than Type 1. Hope this helps further, Clinker
