I recently added the 1998 Matte Proof to my Kennedy collection. I really like my Kennedys and have the entire set minus the errors. My question is this, is the 98 Matte really the key to the series or is there a variety / error I need to add? Thinking about the accented hair 64 next? Any Kennedy nuts out there wanna weigh in.. I will try to get a photo in the next few days. Thanks- Tom
Congrats on the 98 Matte Proof-can't wait to see the pics! Right off the top of my head I'd say the 74 DDO, 82 no initials, and the 79S and 81S type 2 proofs which you probably already have. Then there are minor varieties like 71D DDO (Trust), 72 DDO (IGWT), 73 DDO (TRUST,3), 77 DDO (can't remember specifics), as well as a few RPMs and some other dates in the seventies that may be lacking one or both initials but don't command much of a premium to the best of my knowledge. Oh yeah, then there's those elusive silver clad 71D and 77D's that I'd love to find :devil: but I won't hold my breath...
Ok hope these are clear, I had my daughter take them, she is the camera nut in the house. Any ideas on a possible grade or do I need different photos. She used 2 different backs because for some reason she said there was too much reflection in the reverse on the wood surface but the s was not as clear on the black? Thanks again!
The 1998-S Matte is probably the "key" to the basic set. If you want to get into the variety side of the series, I would recommend the following dies to start: 1964 DDO-002 Proof 1964 DDO-007 Business Strike 1964-D DDO-001 Business Strike 1964-D DDO-003 Business Strike 1964-D DDO-005 Business Strike 1966 DDO-005 Business Strike 1966 DDO-013 Special Mint Set 1967 DDO-001 Business Strike 1970-S DDO-004 Proof 1971-D DDO-004 Business Strike 1971-D DDO-006 Business Strike 1971-S DDO-004 Proof 1971-S DDO-006 Proof 1973-D DDO-001 Business Strike 1974-D DDO-001 Business Strike 1977-D DDO-001 Business Strike
Congratulations on a full set! I like collecting Kennedy's too. It's a long series, so I focus on silver issues certified by PCGS. Have you noticed the change in the portrait over the years? The original 1964 portrait was larger, different hair pattern, and more relief. Over the years the portrait got smaller with flatter relief and the hair is more combed.
My wife has a collection of Proof Kennedys all PCGS graded with 95% Proof 69 deep cameo. Her set is 100% complete with all the SMS's and the Matte Proof.
When I saw your photo on the wooden surface, I cringed. Even if you are trying to be as careful as possible, there is always the chance that the coin might slip from your fingers when picking it up or it might slide on the hard surface. May I suggest that, in the future, you use a plain white towel to put under the coin. Chris
I think the true keys to the Kennedy set is the 1965 to 1967 business strike coins. The special mint set coins of those years make the higher grade circulation coins almost impossible to find. But I do like the 1998-S commemerative to.
I was worried as well. I did take care when placing and picking up the coin. We did try the towel & paper. I think the issue was light and I am working on that. I appreciate the advice and concern. Thanks- Tom
Thanks to everyone who has replied. Especially the lists and ideas where to start on the varieties! Tom
I used to be big on Kennedies. Nice add on. That is an expansive coin for sure. That 1964 SMS one mentioned intrigues me.
I agree that the 65-67 business strikes in high grade are the tough ones. The 64 SMS and the 98 matte are flashy, but money is the only thing you need to get one right this moment. For the business strikes you will have a search on your hands before you can just order one up like a hamburger.