1964 Lincoln How Do I Know If It's A SMS

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Currently the PCGS Population report shows 22 Lincoln cents, 18 Jefferson nickels, 22 dimes and 28 Kennedy half dollars graded as 1964 SMS. Some of these population figures may be inflated since some of the coins may have been cracked out and resubmitted in hopes of an upgrade. However, even if the population figures were close to the actual coins in existence the supply would be extremely limited compared to their popular demand. Many collectors who are collecting the Lincoln cent series up to the Kennedy half dollar series would love to own an example of these special coins. Significantly, there are also many collectors who love to own mysterious coins with a suspenseful history behind them, and the 1964 SMS coins definitely fit this category.

The 1964 SMS coins are extremely scarce, but more are believed to be out there. It is strongly recommended you purchase coins already graded by PCGS since our experts are well aware of the discernable differences in regular issue mint state or proof coins compared to the special 1964 SMS coins. Also remember that our guaranty of authenticity is the best insurance you can have when owning extremely scarce and significant coins.

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Furthermore, it is believed these SMS coins came into existence somehow through the involvement of Eva Adams, U.S. Mint Director at the time. After Eva Adams passed away, her estate was sold off and well-recognized dealer and auctioneer Lester Merkin is believed to have bought many of the coins from her estate. Lester Merkin's collection would then be sold in a Stack's auction in the early 1990s, including some, if not all, of the known 1964 SMS coins.

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Recently, a complete set of these compelling coins was submitted to PCGS for grading. Viewing some of these intriguing and eye-rewarding coins is definitely one of the great benefits of having thousands of coins pass though our graders' hands every single day. Today, many experts believe there are anywhere from 20 to 50 sets in existence in all grades combined, making these coins very scarce. Many of the 1964 SMS coins could have also been lost, damaged or even tossed aside since their mysterious status was only somewhat solved by early 1993, almost 30 years after they were initially produced.