I abhor prefacing my talking point, but, I am. This is not about whether one would buy the set or if you even like modern coins. Ok with that said: Why on earth is this set priced above what a person could buy a proof ASE and a silver proof set separately? The ASE is priced at $53.95 and the 2016 silver proof set is $52.95. $53.95 + $52.95 + $4.95(shipping) = $111.85. Limited Edition Silver proof $139.95 +$4.95(shipping) = $144.90. The Limited Edition set is currently back order. If one buys the Silver proof set they get all the proof coins for 2016. The cent, nickel, dime, 5-ATB quarters, half dollar, NA dollar and presidential dollars. The Limited Edition only comes with the dime, 5-ATB quarters, half dollar and ASE. Am I missing something here?
I don't know if you were buying from the Mint in 2005, but back then they released the American Legacy Set which consisted of the John Marshall & USMC proof silver dollar commems plus the standard clad proof set that included the five SQ's. They sold this amazing set for a mere $135. Do the math! Consider the US Mint just another version of Coin Vault! Chris
Maybe some folks think the packaging of the $139.95 LE set is worth a big premium. Not me. Instead, I ordered the $52.95 Silver Proof Set. And the $53.95 ASE Proof. Like the OP said, I get the same coins as the LE set. Plus 7 more coins. All for $33 less than the LE set. The Real Mystery: Why is the LE set currently on "Back Order"?
I don't know either. Usually these sets are still selling well into the next year. The Limited Edition sets do seem to hold onto their value over the years. Well, comparatively speaking to say proof sets or mint sets. And according to Redbook. I didn't start buying from the mint until 2013. For the first time I did buy an ASE from the mint last night. I usually bought it graded on the secondary market. I also picked up an overpriced 3 coin set of ATB Quarters last night. The mint gets money from me every month.
The mints website says they are limited to 50,000 sets...so you are probably right. They ran out of packaging. Although it's not my thing, some people love the OGP and will jump on these "limited" sets becaus they like the while package. Personally I'd rather have more coins for less money...but some people like the whole thing put together.
All in the packaging. I bought all of the Legacy Sets and never looked back. I liked the presentation and packaging, and yes, I know I over paid. The Limited Edition Silver proof set doesn't turn me on at all. It's all in what a person likes to collect, or as we say here, collect what you like.
