Every year I order proof sets in both silver and regular from the US Mint. I always wind-up returning them. The "Golden" Dollar and Cent usually have spots. Doesn't the Mint insist that the coins are carefully inspected? They charge enough. Strangely, the Commemorative Quarters are usually in great condition. After returning the same sets several times, I gave up but the coins were still not good. Do any of you guys also have to return the proof sets or am I the perfectionist? Look over at your Dollar coins and you'll often find spots; the Cents, too. I don't mind if they turn bronze, but I'm referring to spots!
You are not alone, in your general disgust of quality control measures by the US Mint. It seems like every other day, we get posts expressing concerns about modern Mint products that have been sold to collector/investors. Unfortunately, I believe this situation will only get worse, as long as collector/investors continue to blindly order site-unseen products in volume. In other words, there is no incentive for the Mint to improve quality, so long as they are making money, "hand over fist".
Yes unfortunately I had to return couple sets last year also, spots on a few coins and I believe some kind of corrosion on another, of course I'm guessing, all I know I was not happy, returned them and it took 2 months to get my replacements back--many calls to the mint if I recall--In fact I told them I would not place any more orders, especially for the 4 peice gold proof set until they fixed the silver order--surprisingly after that statement, 2 weeks later the items arrived, and these were pristine--So I was happy and I went back to my routine--By the way welcome to the Forum
I ordered a set of the 2005 Proof Clad Quarters directly from the Mint. The plastic lens on the reverse side looked as if someone had taken fine sandpaper and scratched all over it. The quarters inside appeared to be fine, but it was still hard to tell because of all the scratches on the lens. I returned the set to the Mint and requested a replacement. I received my replacement in less than a week. So, they were pretty good about the return policy as far as this particular deal, but I think they should pay a bit more attention to what they're sending out. It's just costing them $$$ in the long run...
Luckily, I live in the Denver area so I go directly to the privately run Mint shop and (last year) they let me cherry-pick a set by looking through a couple dozen sets.
Visiting the US Mint Shop I also visited the US Mint shop in person once but this was in Philadelphia. The clerk was getting annoyed with me as she had to open at least 6 or 7 Proof Sets before I found one that didn't include spotted or nicked coins. I am referring to the Silver Proof Set which commands a premium price so I had expected perfection! Even the set I purchased was not 100% perfect. The Scagawea Dollar coin is particularly prone to spots and the Kennedy Half often contains a scratch or two on the polished surface. The included notice that "Your Coins have been carefully inspected" is a joke. If they were carefully inspected ,then the workers need new glasses! Spotted proof coins are supposed to be rejected on-the-spot. At least with the Uncirc sets, you expect a few nicks and aren't paying premium prices.
Remember, you're dealing with a govt. agency here. Does anyone recall Ronald Reagan saying, "The last thing an American wants to hear is someone saying, I'm from the government and I’m here to help you". The mint is the only game in town so they can afford not have a bottom line to satisfy the stockholders which happens to be us. Sort of like the Post Office.
Now I don't like things the mint does but so far I can't complain about the coins...the sets I've gotten are good....I will complain about the price....and about the people on the phone when you call... Speedy
You need to realize that those spots are not on the coins when they are inspected & packaged - they develop later after they are already all boxed up and sent to the distribution center.
My 2005 Silver Proof Quarter Set arrived today and I must say it's OUTSTANDING! Every coin in it is beautiful. The Mint did it right with this set. I enjoy the look of the silver quarters over the clad quarters. Silver just sparkles more and it isn't as "grey" looking. Simply beautiful...!!
Quarter Proof Sets Yes, I agree the US Mint does a nice job on the Quarter Proof Sets. My problems have been with the regular Proof Sets. I especially have had problems with the "Golden" Dollar and Cents showing spots and scratches on the Kennedy Halves. The dimes and nickels for the most part are OK; although I once got a nickel with glue on the reverse! When I return these sets to the US Mint, I get a good Dollar but a scratched Kennedy. It took over 2 months to get them replaced not to mention the cost of re-packaging, postage, and insurance.They really don't inspect them very well! Many years ago, the Proof Sets really came in perfect condition. I guess the Mint doesn't care anymore about quality, just profit.
