I don't understand the difference between the two products linked below. OK, clearly there is a $7 cost premium for the unc set along with different packaging. What coins do you get with the circulating set? Seems like the circulating coin set would still get you unc coins. It's the same finish as the unc set. I can't fathom that they pay people to pull them out of circulation rather than take unc samples off the conveyor belt. What am I missing? http://catalog.usmint.gov/america-t...-NE1.html?cgid=america-the-beautiful-quarters http://catalog.usmint.gov/america-t...-NE2.html?cgid=america-the-beautiful-quarters
Has to do with the Mint's internal terminology. The Mint uses the same words we do, but they don't mean the same thing. Coins that are not proofs but which are intended for collectors sets (Think Mint Sets, regular coins but struck slower and at higher pressure, or the "burnished" ASE's.) they call Uncirculated. Regular business strikes intended to be placed into circulation they call Circulated, even though they have no wear. So the $12.95 set uses quarters like those that are found in the mint sets, and the $5.95 set just uses regular coins intended for circulation.
Even though the TPG's don't recognize the difference between U.S. Mint unc and circulating coins, there are differences, as the mint clearly states. After comparing them, I can usually tell the difference, the unc is struck with more pressure, producing a better coin or what I'd call an SMS coin. I collect both, as some day the differences may be recognized.
Yes, I have also found it somewhat confusing also. If one gets a roll from the mint, they haven't really been circulated yet. If one spends them, they become circulated, but, if not, then? I guess it is kind of a virgin thing or something. But, if one spent a W Ag Eagle would it still be uncirculated?
It is a quality designation. The Uncirculated (higher priced) set is supposed to contain coins that are a higher quality than the standard mass produced business strike coins in the other set. With the quality control though who knows how good either set would actually be.
uncirculated sets are meant for collectors and struck with better quality dies, circulated sets are business strikes meant for circulation but pulled off the line before going into circulation and sold in sets to make the Mint more money...
That's the Government for you - keeps you guessing as they pick your pockets for a few dollars more!!
There is no stated difference. All the listing says is that coins are "uncirculated" vs. "circulated". The satin finish is long gone. I take you at your word that better dies are used, but that's news to me (and also answers my question). so thank you.
True, the unc quarter set description says nothing, but, the unc set, which contains the same quarters, does. From the mint: "Produced in special presses, these uncirculated coins feature sharp, intricate details. With each 2015 coin from both Philadelphia and Denver mints this coin set is a must-have for your collection." If that doesn't indicate the unc coins should be designated SMS, I don't know what does.
Only the people that buy both are paying an extra $7.00 for the same thing. It's all in the Mint packaging.
I asked my granddad once, what the difference between a Chevrolet truck and GMC truck was. His reply; "GMC has lock washers."
Has to do with the Mint's internal terminology. The Mint uses the same words we do, but they don't mean the same thing. Coins that are not proofs but which are intended for collectors sets (Think Mint Sets, regular coins but struck slower and at higher pressure, or the "burnished" ASE's.) they call Uncirculated. Regular business strikes intended to be placed into circulation they call Circulated, even though they have no wear. So the $12.95 set uses quarters like those that are found in the mint sets, and the $5.95 set just uses regular coins intended for circulation.