The 1938 Proof Set was the third year of issue after the United States Mint resumed producing proof coins for collectors. Sales of proof coins continued to grow, with mintages for most coins now double the levels attained in 1936. Notably, this set also contains the first year of issue for the Jefferson Nickel
The United States Mint produced five different denominations in proof at the Philadelphia facility. This included the Lincoln Cent, Jefferson Nickel, Mercury Dime, Washington Quarter, and Walking Liberty Half Dollar. Because coins were sold individually, or as a set, the mintages for each coin varied widely. Sales were highest for the 1938 Proof Jefferson Nickel as the first year of issue for a new design. The mintage for the 1938 Proof Set is usually stated as 8,045, the level of the lowest mintage individual coin.
1938 Proof Coin Mintages
- 1938 Proof Lincoln Cent: 14,734
- 1938 Proof Jefferson Nickel: 19,365
- 1938 Proof Mercury Dime: 8,728
- 1938 Proof Washington Quarter: 8,045
- 1938 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar: 8,152
The 1938 Proof Coins are encountered predominantly with a brilliant proof finish. Proof coins exhibiting cameo contrast are rare and highly prized by collectors.
Packaging for the 1938 Proof Set varied based by customer order. Because coins could be ordered individually, each proof coin was placed in an individual cellophane sleeve. These were stapled at the top and placed within a box or envelope. It is rare to encounter 1938 proof coins in their original packaging as most have been transferred to different holders or have been certified.
1938 Proof Set
- Face Value: $0.91
- Original Issue Price: $1.89
- Mintage: 8,045
