So What's The Story With The 2012 Mint & Proof Sets

According to the mint's page, the 2012 Proof set should be available 5/7 and the 2012 Unc set should be available 5/21.

last year they were available in Feb, in 2010 they weren't available until July

If they do change the composition they should change the design or have some kind of distinguishing feature to easily identify them, such as the arrows at the dates of 1853-1855, and 1873. Or just include the .999 notation.

I guess their still trying to sell the 2011 sets.
Record low mintage since quite a while (1958?), they probably have a stock pile.

The Mint feels they can get someone else to make blanks for them at a cheaper price than they can make themselves.

I do not think should have to put it on the coin if they make the change between years.

That is 2012 and earlier are .900, 2013 and later are .999.

I've purchased both 2010 and 2011 mint sets from the mint. I have also purchased several other years from auctions. I use them in my Danscos, and I've been happy with them. For 2011 you are essentially paying $18.13 + s&h for guaranteed uncirculated coins. Also you will not find the half nor the Native American dollar unless you buy the set or from someone who has broken-up the set to sell.

Bottom line if you want a full uncirculated coin set for the year that is the way to go, as you will pay more trying to buy them individually. If your collection is AU you should be able to find everything in circulation or at your bank (apart from the half and native am. dollar) pretty easily throughout the year.