1870 Proof Set (Newer Photos - Large Post!)

Metalman, there was really no special significance to the date. However here were some reasons for doing it:

* It seemed "doable" without going after gold. The material was relatively available albeit a bit expensive for the higher denominations, especially for the dollar.
* I wanted to do as early a Proof set as I could accomplish in an affordable manner and in this lifetime.
* I think it might have been even better to go after something in the 1860's, but I already happened to have a few 1870 Proofs and thought "What the heck...let's go for it!"
* It's a 10-piece set! There's only a certain span of years that the set is that big and include the odd denomination stuff that I love.

Truly an amazing accomplishment Prethen ! this is proof (no pun intended) that coin collecting is the hobby of kings. I can't imagine anyone looking at these pictures and not get goosebumps. thank you very much for sharing these with us. the seated half obverse would make a great screen saver!!

Impressive group of coins.

Wow, stunning set. 5 figures?
In a word...Yes. Not high five figures, though. None of the coins grade above Proof 65 so they may not be quite as expensive as you might think.

1¢ - NGC PF65RB
2¢ - NGC PF64RB
3CS - NGC PF64
3CN - NGC PF64
1/2 10¢ - NGC PF64 Cameo
5¢ - PCGS PF64CAM
10¢ - NGC PF64 Cameo
25¢ - NGC PF64 Cameo
50¢ - ANACS PF64
$1 - PCGS PF62CAM

I will say this though, some of these coins seem like they should upgrade without much of an issue. The dollar is one of those coins that seems like it could very well end up in a 63+ holder. I've seen more than a few Proof dollars that have as many if not more hairlines and issues in higher grade holders. There are no hits on the coin but there are strong, but subtle, patches of hairlines.

Personally, I feel that all of the coins are conservatively graded. In fact, I believe the holders potentially hold back the future value of these coins. I'm not big on cracking out and playing the grading game. Perhaps the only way to sell them (when that day comes) is as a set and by a private arrangement. Perhaps the right auction could show these off properly with a lot of physical traffic that can review the set in person.

His reasons are on the previous page...

Probably the same way I miss things, too much multi-tasking!

<-----------Me if I was the owner of this set!!