The 1937 Proof Set was the second set issued by the United States Mint following resumption of proof coinage for collectors. Sales of the set fared better than the prior year when only a scant number of proof coins were sold. This trend of increasing mintages would continue for the next five years until proof coin production was halted.
Five different denominations were produced in proof version at the Philadelphia Mint. This included the cent, nickel, dime, quarter, and half dollar coins. The proof coins were sold either individually, or as a complete set of five coins priced at $1.89. Mintages varied by denomination due to the individual sales. Based on the lowest mintage coin, the maximum number of 1937 Proof Sets that can exist is 5,542, which is generally quoted as the mintage of the proof set.
1937 Proof Coin Mintages
- 1937 Proof Lincoln Cent: 9,320
- 1937 Proof Buffalo Nickel: 5,769
- 1937 Proof Mercury Dime: 5,756
- 1937 Proof Washington Quarter: 5,542
- 1937 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar: 5,728
The 1937 Proof Coins were produced with a brilliant proof finish. Many original coins may now exhibit toning from storage over the years. Proof coins exhibiting cameo contrast are extremely rare for this year and demand exceptional premiums above brilliant proof coins.
The 1937 Proof Set packaging varied based on the coins ordered. Each proof coin was placed within an individual cellophane sleeve. These were stapled together at the top and then placed within a box or envelope. Most 1937 Proof Sets encountered will not be in the original packaging since it was rarely retained and did not preserve the coins well.
1937 Proof Set
- Face Value: $0.91
- Original Issue Price: $1.89
- Mintage: 5,542
