Fill lots of modern proof collection holes...which route to take?

Discussion in 'US Coins Forum' started by KeyHunter, Nov 12, 2022.

  1. KeyHunter

    KeyHunter Supporter! Supporter

    ...what might be the better route? Purchase old proof sets to crack open or...

    ...purchase coins separately. I'm catching up on a decade (or two +) post retirement to complete all denomination modern proofs. THEN start working back to some classic proofs.

    These coins are going into Lighthouse quadrum intercept square snaps and my binder albums. Binder pages are for the squares; I have separate pages for slabbed key date as purchased. Not all places sell the individual proof coins raw and IF they do their condition can be questionable as I've gotten SOME from big name 'net dealers covered in crud and fingerprints. Deep inside feel purchase old proof sets to crack out what I need, condition will be best...right from the mint minus a coin dealer handling raw middleman...and me getting their spoils.
     
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  3. ldhair

    ldhair Clean Supporter

    Buying sets would be the best bet. Most should be in really nice condition but you may find some with spots.
     
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  4. Collecting Nut

    Collecting Nut Borderline Hoarder

    I’d buy the sets and break apart. Watch for milk spots on the coins before purchasing them.
     
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  5. johnmilton

    johnmilton Well-Known Member

    Proof singles have always been the more expensive option especially if you want raw coins for albums. The only reason to buy Proof singles is if you are looking for certified coins in exceptional condition. For Proofs prior to the 1980s, that would include the "Cameo" designation.
     
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  6. mpcusa

    mpcusa "Official C.T. TROLL SWEEPER"

    Milk spots can still show up later, I have
    bought some certified eagles only to
    have them start spotting in the TPG holder, so have to expect that especially
    on the newer issues.
     
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  7. dimeguy

    dimeguy Dime Enthusiast

    Since you are covering a couple decades for all denominations, I would second the set crackout option. Buying individually is nice for a coin or two (me for my dimes and cents), but if you are wanting all denominations it is not the wisest for the budget.
     
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  8. cladking

    cladking Coin Collector

    Most date proof sets are fine but many of 1968 to 1994 sets are often tarnished or have a haze on them. This is exceedingly difficult to remove so they should be avoided.

    Yes, buy the sets and break them open. Each date is a little different in the best means to open but most I use an awl and hammer with eye protection.
     
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  9. KeyHunter

    KeyHunter Supporter! Supporter

    Thanks everyone for the reassurance...so far I have a 12 year gap in the 200-teen years to present. My existing denomination collections start in the 50's and end ~ 2011. Got a set list and am glad my nearest LCS stocks everything I need. Between breaking sets, transferring and upgrading existing singles from OLD Dansco albums and labeling/inventory I'm all set for long winter nights.
     
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  10. russell1256

    russell1256 Well-Known Member

    Try to buy the classic ones first, the newer ones will always be around and affordable. Not the older, more expensive ones. I wish that is what I did!
     
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