The annual Proof Set has been a long time favorite for coin collectors. It provides a simple and affordable way to collect one of each coin issued by the US Mint for the year, in high quality proof condition.
Proof coins are generally struck for collectors. A special process is used which creates sharply struck coins with mirror like finishes. This process involves polishing the dies used to strike the coins, and using multiple strikes. Most modern proof coins have cameo features. The raised elements of the coin design appear frosted, while the background appears mirrored. For early proof coins, this cameo finish is less common or scarce, making cameo examples highly desirable.
1954 Proof Set
The era of modern proof coinage is generally considered to start with 1936. In this year, the Philadelphia Mint resumed production of proof coins after a twenty year gap. Proof coins were produced and sold to the public from 1936 to 1942 inclusive. At the time, the coins could be purchased either individually or as a complete set.
Production of proof coins was paused once again after 1942, but later resumed in 1950. Starting with this year, the US Mint sold proof coins as complete sets which contained one coin from each denomination. The proof sets from 1950 to 1955 were packaged in individual cellophane slips which were stapled together at the top and put into a cardboard box.
In 1955, the packaging was changed to a new flat pack, which would be used until 1964. This type of packaging placed the coins in a single cellophane film, with each coin in a separate compartment. This was placed within a printed US Mint mailing envelope.
From 1965 to 1967, the US Mint temporarily replaced proof sets with Special Mint Sets. The coins in these sets had proof like qualities, which made them superior to regulra coins struck for circulation.
Starting with 1968, the Proof Set assumed its most familiar format. Coins were sealed within a plastic holder and placed within a box. Although the design of the holder and box would change over the years, this basic format is still used today.
