How do I determine if these are proof or uncirculated? I realize the proofs go for substantially more money.
Considering the number of fake coins coming out of China I'd have to rephrase the question as real or fake.
There are two "tells" for proof coins AFAIK...1) the strike is VERY sharp and the background is either flawless or a mirror 2) for US coins (and I think all others) the edge of the coin should be at a 90 degree angle, not chamfered.
The "Coin Sets Of All Nations" were uncirculated, not proofs. I've read that the China sets usually value higher than most.
These coins come very nice and most look like they are very high grade. Buyers are looking for coins that will slab at very high grade though and most will not. Lower grades and run of the mill Gems still have significant value however and are not common.
These were produced by The Franklin Mint from the early1970's through middle to late 80's in Unc and Proof sets. Quality of strike and the rims will distinguish them. Look at sold listings on e-bay for price guide. One of our members here is a bit of a specialist on FM coinage although these sets might not be high on his interest level, @7Jags
I didn't realize that these coins were minted by Franklin Mint. They look identical to coins you can find in circulation in China today, although the smaller denoms are a bit tough to come by because of low value. Last time I was there, 2016, you could get small denom'd aluminum coins in basically BU from any bank when doing currency exchanges; though they weren't really used in any sort of commerce.
