The United States Mint today announced through the Federal Register that each of four special one-ounce, .999 fine proof American Silver Eagles will be priced at $105. The lineup includes 2025 Silver Eagles featuring privy marks commemorating the 250th anniversaries of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as a separate issue bearing a "Laser Beam" privy mark.
The price is $10 higher than that of the standard proof Silver Eagle released earlier this year, which is struck at the U.S. Mint’s West Point facility. Still available, more than 210,000 have been sold. Each of the upcoming coins shares the same specifications and core design as the standard version. What sets them apart are the distinctive privy marks that depict military branch seals. The "Laser Beam" edition remains a mystery, with no further details provided to date.
In a separate press release published today, the Mint revealed that the first of these four special coins – honoring the U.S. Army – will be available for public pre-order beginning Friday, June 13, with shipping expected to start in late July. The release aligns with the Army’s 250th anniversary on June 14. Also struck at the West Point Mint, the coin has a mintage of 100,000 and an initial household order limit of three. In addition, it will be offered through both the Mint’s Numismatic Bulk Purchase Program (NBPP) and Authorized Bulk Purchase Program (ABPP).
Mintages and household limits for the remaining coins are expected to mirror those of the Army edition. The Laser Beam version is scheduled for release on Aug. 20 and will be struck at the West Point Mint. The Navy and Marine Corps coins are planned for the fall, with production at the San Francisco and Philadelphia Mints, respectively. Their 250th anniversaries fall on Oct. 13 (Navy) and Nov. 10 (Marine Corps).
The Federal Register serves as the official daily journal of the U.S. federal government, publishing notices, proposed and final rules, and other regulatory documents issued by federal agencies.
You know, I kinda like those Armed Services Privy Marks. My brother in law is a 35 year Navy lifer. He might like one of those. He’s 82 now. BTW, here is my ASE collection. The spot free version. Is there anyone here that can top this? No. I didn’t think so.
Cheers
I’m not even at 10%.
I’m with you on the proofs. I fall behind on the uncirculateds.
Impressive work, E1.
Thanks REB. In the last couple of years, the set has become so complicated that only a very few people will be able to build a complete set. But what a massive and impressive set it would be.
Cheers
True.
We’re going to need photographic verification, just to be sure.
…⚆_⚆…
Slabbville! Very nice E1. Pricey to assemble, slab and ….save nowadays.
privy madness, maybe a decent long term but 100k ASE mintage is mid low”ish” not low per HISTORICAL appreciation…but, Subject A#1 @ USM. Mint to order in a way. Surprised not more w recent pop in Ag….
Thanks JQC. Stack On Braah. Slabbed or not. Cheers
E 1,
I have over a thousand ASE’s of all types in my safe, but most are as I received them from the mint or in mint rolls. I’ve collected a few graded ASE’s as well, but nothing comparable to your collection, You do a nice job collecting as well as presenting your valued coins. Well done!
Thanks Craig,
THE ASEs can be fun. But storage is critical. I am a fan of the T1. Beware of the spotted years though (2008-2015). Most of the ASEs I have were graded back in the day when the TPGs were not issuing a “70” grade. Same with a lot of my other modern coins. But, I am just gonna let the set sit. The set is a part of my history too.
Cheers
I honestly have no idea how many ASEs I got. Started w rolls in 1986 – who has these w a clear tune w Orange caps? Also, I know no 1996w nor a 2019 Enhanced…rolls with some milky spots, need to do a deep dive one day. Back in late 2006, picked up,several ASE sets 1986-2006. Slabs are not part of it. My lack of slabbing kinda impacts sale ability to individuals…
I don’t know how many ASE’s I have either and I’m not about to go and count them ! LoL. Like you, I just like adding precious metal coins to my collection over the years. I will concede that E 1 puts a lot of thought and care into his presentation of his graded coins. He goes above and beyond and for that I think the crown goes to him!
E 1, It is indeed a part of your history! I don’t think many folks realise how difficult (and time consuming) it is to put together the kind of collection you possess. And let’s not forget about how expensive it is to put that amazing display together. That alone precludes many from even trying. For whatever reason I haven’t found any spotting on any of my ASE’s as you described. I know it must be frustrating for you to have found some so affected…hopefully the rest will be unfazed by the milk spots! Are you going for the privy ASE’s?… Read more »
Thanks Craig,
Brick-by-Brick. A little bit each year. Year after year. Decade after Decade. Stay focused and don’t financially compromise yourself in your pursuit. Collect for the history and collect for the beauty That is my best advice.
Cheers
Wow, truly impressive E1! I had been under the impression that you had completely rid yourself of all American Silver Eagles, due to the ones you had that were milk spotted? I guess not. I might have you on sheer numbers, though none are slabbed. I did quit buying them after picking up just a sole coin in 2021. A 2021 W Type 2 uncirculated to have at least one Type 2 in my collection. I’m missing the 1986 S Proof, 1995 W PF, 2008 W Rev 2007, 2017 S PF, 2017 W Unc., 2021 W RP(Designer set) in the… Read more »
Cali,
Those are my survivors from my once great legacy set. I never knew you were an ASE fan. Sounds like you have a lot to work with there. Those new privies are tempting. Well, keep on stacking Cali and thanks again for all of your highly informative posts. I still remember how you saved me $100 – You my friend for life braah.
Cheers
CaliSkier, Well done with your collection as well. I had a mindset like yours with regard to collecting multiples of certain coins/sets in that if I needed to sell for money I’d have at least one for me. And that includes those lovely 5 oz ATB ‘pucks’ which I have in its entirety with multiples of many (especially the early presses and of course the Hawaiian coins). Of course wanting to be diversified with my assets, I also became interested in the stock market and with the passage of time (and some well timed purchases of securities) I no longer… Read more »
Craig good question on where to sell? Coin show, eBay or LCS? I only have practical experience selling to a LCS. Others may have a more informed opinion or experience? I just know, that when I stumbled on and began reading Mint News Blog circa 2008, as well as shopping EBay, I noticed that original packed and sealed shipping boxes from the U.S. Mint garnered a higher resell price. I’ve always been curious as to the state or condition of my 3 sealed(in 2 boxes) 2011 25th Anniversary sets, as when I opened one of the boxes with 2 sets… Read more »
eBay hits u for 15% plus …..and a 1099 over $599
CaliSkier, Funny that you mentioned the higher prices the mint was charging for PM coinage as your reason for not completing your P ATB 5 oz collection. I started buying only one each of those starting in 2015, as the price rose to $149.95 per coin. The reason was more because demand for the coins was waning then price and there were some nice Au coins being offered by the mint I just had to have. But I still wanted a complete set of the P ATB coins. I was amused because in 2010 the price was $279.95 for each… Read more »
$50 kinda my Magic# but depends on how and when, seems like $60-70 may be possible….hard to catch a rising market
JQC,
Your prognostication of Ag’s future spot price might appear to be folly by some, but when one considers Ag will be in high demand as AI data centers are being built, it may be inevitable. Keep on stacking buddy! Cheers
We shall see, I’ve been stacking awhile. And boxing, etc. For Rick et al., I remember swapping out rolls of clad halves for other rolls, and pull the 40%ag, they were around d for awhile even a few ‘64!
still get rolls and try, I haven’t gotten any for years, but some of the USM issued “only” halves always seem to,show up….
Oh I fondly remember the days when we, as kids, would buy rolls and rolls of various denominations in search of the Ag ones. We’d find entire rolls of mercury dimes and silver quarters and halves. Ag was cheap back in the day, but my brothers and I still have the majority of those coins in our collections. It’s a shame kids growing up recently can’t experience that same thrill as we did. Of course, most kids today don’t even realise we have coins. Lol!
My goal was 500 SE 500 Morgan’s and 500 Peace dollars. I’m good on the SE And Morgan’s but need about 150 Peace dollars. I have over 40,000 invested now so. Damn getn pricy. Lol.
E 1 —
Not even the Smithsonian may have an equivalent collection. Thanks for sharing! On the other hand, may I ask you keep your loaded collection of firearms close to it? Just in case ….
— Mike
Database connection?
Error establishing a database connection?
I was having the same problem yesterday.
I installed my Windows/BIOS updates and it seemed to take care of it.
That wasn’t it. Database Error again at 9:30 PM Friday Nite Pacific Time. OK on Saturday morning.
Same here for the last few nights.
Database issue this AM again….
Yes, VinnieC. I was going to ask if anyone else was experiencing that ‘database connection error’ message I’ve encountered over several days. I was beginning to wonder if my Apple Mac Studio machine was having problems but it only occurs trying to access this site. Thanks for asking. Cheers
Been intermittently popping up since a day or 2 ago. Kind of like my syntax error arguing w the Mrs….
I was wondering if it was just me or of other people saw it.
Happened again this Sunday morning on my computer, but was able to get on with my iPhone. Weird…
E1,
“BTW, here is my ASE collection.”
Whoa Bro! Mighty fine assortment there, all PCGS too. The presentation really pops, classy. Thanks for the share!
And now I remember where you installed your brass plates – on the inside?!
They look to be on the bottom center of the topmost tray. Does the lid close without issue. I think I know the answer – but…..
E1,
“ Is there anyone here that can top this?”
Do these count?
Probably not qualified, I tried lol.
Besides, half of them are my moms. I dug them up(literally) from her backyard last month. She was kind enough to let me take them and store them for her.
Stacker Moms rule haha…
Bam! Stack good enough for a King!
Nope, can’t top that. Nice!
Silver Up, Up, Up.
Cheers Bud
“Stacker Mom.”
How could one be so lucky? My Mom has a stack of Bibles.
Yes, the cases close fine with the brass plates inside.
The sets that I gave to my daughter and the grandkids have plaques on the front face of the case (not the top, cause they won’t stack proper) with their names on them. e.g. (name Coins).
Up early today Rick?
Post in Peace
My mom has BOXES of unopened QVC purchases since say 1980s. Such crapolo
Open, Open, Open!
You Never Know.
No not up early, I was up late as usual when I’m on ‘break’.
I think I’m going to get a few of those little brass plaques, nice touch.
Mom’s a stacker, prepper, a great gardener, and a little off.
And that’s fine with me. I’m a bit off too, but who ain’t lol…
We’re all off a little bit. That’s what gives us our personality.
Peace Out
Serial retainer, collector, even cereal boxes. Even has the cereal…tasty I bet….
This one too. He was such an athlete.
Caitlyn for Gov…Nah….
I knew she was once a guy.
Likely better then Gavin the Poseur….sad
LA and CA leaders clueless PC hacks
They sure do with me! That is one nice collection of mint tubes! I’m impressed to say the least. Cheers
No, monsters are loose. Nice Rick, a few Glocks for security might be needed…..thresh heavy stuff
Agree, the monster coins don’t count, but may come in handy someday JQ.
You best check those 40% rolls down in your dungeon, you might find some Gems! Don’t forget your 5oz ATB rolls & US Territories silver sets – let’s go $50 Ag!
Only a toy-like 22 pistol & BB gun for security haha. Buck knives, Stun Guns, & Baseball Bats work too.
Besides a few OGP ASE’s in the dungeon, this is all I got ⇊…
I got 5 rolls of ATB pucks plus others. All whe. Under $1k a roll, always seemed like a good deal. Gonna go into the black hole looking. I have 40% rolls unchecked for decades. Also some IKe rolls, and $40 SBA rolls….
On May 28, 2025, I posted “With the Federal Court ruling after hours, Gold:Silver ratio should decrease.” The Federal Court’s decision and subsequent stay were expected; however, the timing was unforeseen. On March 13, 2025, I posted “Today I sold 1000 shares of SLV @ $30.22 = $30,220.00 in taxable account.” On May 27, 2025, the day of the Federal Court ruling, SLV closed @ $30.23. So, in 76 days SLV moved $.01 from $30.22 to $30.23. The Gold:Silver ratio on the day I sold my SLV position, March 13, 2025, was 88:1. The Gold Silver ratio on the day… Read more »
Three per household feels high. And why re-sellers get allocated any for such a small mintage feels suspect. I fully expect the Mint to botch this release like so many others. New Mint director can’t come soon enough.
Michael C, many here share your sentiment. Any here, should possibly consider sending my same e-mail or version(omit “Past low mintage section) thereof, to the U.S. Mint. On Thursday I sent one to the CCAC, asking them to please forward to any contacts they have directly at the U.S. Mint. I also sent one to the usmint-support address which more than likely falls on deaf ears? Additionally I attempted to send direct e-mails to Willie Pasco and Eric Anderson, whose names appear at the bottom of the Federal Register notice announcing the establishment of pricing for these products. Just now… Read more »
Why worry, there were plenty of FHG to go around, those APB deserve a cut off the top.
Rick,
The 1965-(P) Kennedy arrived this morning. I don’t think there will be an upgrade for this coin. I also don’t think I will be cracking this one out either, as it looks to be about the same grade as the one in my album. It might be a tad better but not worth the effort.
Here is the 1964-1970 Mint State Run that I have. Some light purple tone is starting to develop on some of the coins. The 1965 is the worst coin of them all but probably an “MS66.” However, the 1965-(P) is the toughest coin in the bunch to find in respectable condition. But I’m just gonna leave it as is, let it bake, and hope for some nice colors down the road.
Cheers Bro
The 1965-(P) Business Strike Kennedy Half Dollar is a very difficult coin to acquire in a respectable grade. For starters, the supply is limited, as not many were put back by collectors after the rush of the 1964 90% Silver Kennedys. Additionally, the quality was poor, as this was the first 40% Silver Clad Half struck by the Mint. Water spots, sharp digs, scratches, and chatter are abundant. The mint may have not given much consideration to the post strike handling of the 1965-(P). However, the strike details improve in the coins graded MS66 and above. In regards to grade… Read more »
Thanks for the synopsis on the 1965 circulating 50C coin E1.
Thumbs up.
Not sure Rick, the Dansco resting one looks like a few bad shaving cuts…
Yeah, it was a weak purchase. The Ebay photo was a little sketchy. Might make a good stocking stuffer though. Five months till Christmas.
E1,
Your new NGC 1965 business strike coin looks a bit better via grade but not by much as you point out. It may have been dipped recently as it’s bright, so it may not fit in. Your existing coin is just fine though. Good pic of your 8 coin subset in the raw, nice work!
“This set contains only eight coins, but there’s a lot of numismatic history here.” Isn’t that the truth…
https://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/half-dollars/kennedy-half-dollars-specialty-sets/kennedy-half-dollars-basic-silver-short-set-circulation-strikes-1964-1970/801
Thanks Rick,
PCGS calls it the “Silver Kennedy Short Set.” Short sets are a favorite of mine. But that is one tough short stretch of coins. Not the easiest to build these days. Basically, I can’t afford the grades that make me happy. So, I think it is finished for now.
Also, I was hoping you could finalize/append the 1965-(P) Op Ed piece above with some pop data and your astute opinion on vibrantly toned specimens for the 1965-(P). Just a thought.
Post in Peace and Steer Clear of LA for Now.
Cheers
Rick,
What do you think?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/297088331646
Another One.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/135734143147
Its official! As I’d speculated in discussion with Rick, 10-20%, likely going to the ABPP and NBPP homies! U.S. Mint press release title and link below. There will be less than 90,000 available, direct to the public. These will move to “unavailable” in 5 minutes or less! Good luck to everyone, as you’ll need a bit. “United States Mint Begins Pre-Sale for the 250th Anniversary United States Army American Eagle One Ounce Silver Proof Coin on June 13” “This product is included in the Numismatic Bulk Purchase Program, as well as the Authorized Bulk Purchase Program.” PS Rick, since these… Read more »
Glad I don’t care or have a dog in this fight. $330 set price. APBs will be selling sets I suspect when alls done. 100k midish #, good subjects.Even if I thought I’d have a winner I’d pass, because EVERY TIME you think the USM is doing you a favor, the appreciation never happens or a <5m sellout cluster F…..pass
Reverend!!!!!!!
IMHO, often the USM seems very reactionary when looking at trends. I speculate if it does go to a fast sellout that they might increase the product limit on the USMC and USN privy creating a “unbalanced set”. They might even dampen interest in the following privy ASE by overproducing them and reducing interest. They react only to the numbers but not the root cause (the “why”). I think the USM limited production on the FHG based on other gold coin sales trends not understanding the difference in the FHG interest. However the may have dampened the regular FHG interest… Read more »
Vinny I agree when you say: “They might even dampen interest in the following privy ASE by overproducing them and reducing interest.” This is what they did with the Reverse Proof issues as well IMO. Simply, overplayed and therefore demand dropped. Someone(you?) had mentioned that the RCM had overdone there privy marks as well and those also became less desired, with few exceptions. V75, Star, Eagle, Flowing Hair 230, Army, Navy, USMC, Laser Beam, and who knows what’s next? The U.S. Mint would be wise to realize “you can only go to the well so many times, before it runs… Read more »
Cali there is a .gov page set up for the ABPP’s to purchase in bulk using the AB suffix. They don’t have an 040 suffix page set up for the bulk 40 tray option. Combining the suffixes doesn’t work, so they’re not offered in th 40 coin trays it seems. When the FH Medals were shipped to AP’s, they were in 100 coin boxes(according to an AP on a forum), so I’m guessing that the Army ASE’s will follow suit?
The NBPP is the entry level bulkster program, and the ABPP is a step up, and by invitation only depending on performance within the NBPP.
So it seems that the “AB’s” are the Alpha big dogs here, but in the end, the whole pack has been invited to crash our party anyway…
https://www.usmint.gov/help-center/bulk-program.html
Cali, Per your request. “Till Your Well Runs Dry.”
You are the man E1! I’ve never heard this live version by Peter’s(1944-1987) son Andrew! Great version, giving thanks and praises!
That’s what they did to the Morgan/Peace reproductions after 2021.
They went overboard with the production numbers in ’23 -’24.
Then the TPG’s jumped on board with fancy labels, as usual.
In fact, I scammed myself into buying a pair of RP “Ultra Breaks” Gold label 70 coins. The label is rare, the coins, well not so much. Lesson learned on those.
I think they should keep all of these 250th Military coins capped at 100k.
MEZAK vision, they tout these like they’re rarer then 0rig CCs….l. Rare In 70, duh not for a 2023 and on coin….nice rev proofs
VinnieC said in the previous thread: “I am surprised lack of interest in the 2021 W Ty 1 & S Ty 2 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle. The OGP set sells for about the $175 release price. It is only the PF70 grade versions that sell for more.” I surmise the poor performance on the secondary market for the 2021 W/S American Eagle Silver Reverse Proof Two-Coin Set Designer Edition was due to at least 3 main issues. The first “ding” was the plain old, warn out and overused reverse proof finish. These “special designer set” ASE coins should have been… Read more »
The 2019-S ERP ASE also threw the 2019-W ERP ASE and the Pride of Two Nation set under the bus. I am still sore over all the chaos on opening day sales for the S-ERP. I finally got it in my basket only to lose it during checkout. I think the magic mintage is 100,000 or lower for the ASE. I didn’t comment on the RCM privy. I can see how I might lose interest. I think I am one of the few that still like the RP finish. I mentioned that I like the mirrored device (Walking Liberty, bust,… Read more »
Maybe, maybe not, see FHG….Try 1/10th designer AGE set, 1st year of Porgans cc privy, V75s, ad nauseum.
USM they still in the League, more like la leche league
Regardless of,price I’m not a fan of the RP particularly on the Porgans. Contrived the USM has become in its olde age…. NGC is looser, but PCGS has loosened as well IMHO. Prices are crazy @USM, but some still say too cheap…..
Risk on Trade since the Federal Court ruling after markets closed on May 27, 2025.
Closing prices on May 27, 2025:
Gold = $3,302.00
Silver = $33.22
Platinum = $1,079.00
Palladium = $960.00
Closing prices on June 6, 2025:
Gold = $3,311.67 Up $9.67/oz. or 0.3% Gold is NOT a risk on trade
Silver = $35.85 Up $2.63/oz. or 7.9% Risk on trade
Platinum = $1,170.00 Up $91.00/oz. or 8.4% Risk on trade
Palladium = $1,046.00 Up $86.00/oz. or 9.0% Risk on trade
Notice of the three risk on trades, both Platinum and Palladium outperformed Silver…
Based on #s there is a discussed Pt shortfall this year. And a lot rarer than AU
I can buy all three metals. Which one has the lowest price to premium if I want to own a tradable form (I’d go with coins)? Does the premium I have to pay (both ways) get made up by the “outperformance”? Can I afford all three? And will I find ready buyers for all three?
All these are considerations we should ponder before getting all excited about a little outperformance by one or the other.
My money is with silver. Sold the palladium coins way back over $2000/oz before it topped out.
JMHO
Dave, the above are excellent points to ponder. I agree wholeheartedly when you say: “will I find ready buyers for all three?”.
After further researching the 2021 American Silver Eagles Reverse Proof Designer Sets, for any curious, here’s how the Type 2 coins TPG grades fared. Not sure why, however less Type 2 coins appear to have been graded by PCGS and NGC than the Type 1 coins(35,744). Out of the 124,916 sets sold, there have been a total of 27,697 Type 2 RP coins graded and slabbed by PCGS and NGC. These numbers are also quite skewed when comparing the percentages of PF70’s handed out by NGC vs PCGS! PCGS is showing they graded a total of 4,221 coins or 15.2%… Read more »
Above, I meant to say one of the following: “NGC lists PF69, both Ty 1 and Ty 2 at $150 and both PF70’s at $250. Or, NGC lists PF69/PF70, both Ty 1 and Ty 2 at $150 and at $250 respectively. PS Rick said above, re: Silver Eagles(Monster boxes pic) he dug up from his Mom’s. backyard(literally): “Mom’s a stacker, prepper, a great gardener, and a little off. And that’s fine with me. I’m a bit off too, but who ain’t lol…” E1 followed: “We’re all off a little bit. That’s what gives us our personality. Peace Out”. Agree with… Read more »
E1, “PCGS calls it the “Silver Kennedy Short Set.” Short sets are a favorite of mine.”… “…finalize/append the 1965-(P)…” Well, E1, I’m not much of an astute anything, but I get by regardless my friend. I can appreciate short Sets too, and this one gives me a stimulating collecting challenge, yet is easily obtained (within reason) by anybody imo. The “forgotten years” of 1965-69 are plentiful, since many 10’s of millions were struck. However, you’re correct when it comes to the challenge in finding the high-quality coins. Yes, circulating coinage of the era was fairly rough, even the 70-D went… Read more »
E1 @pop data on vibrantly toned specimens for the 1965-(P). Well, that coin in high grade is a challenge, and very expensive, much like the lower mintage ’70-D, ask me how I know! Again, I don’t know about me sometimes? When you take a look at the “coinfacts” image pages of the ’65, and the other years in the set(for that matter), you’ll see a pattern with the top grades — Color, and lots of it, more in a sec. There’s only 6 top-pops(for now)on the ’65 coin at PCGS, and I’m a proud owner of one of them. It’s… Read more »
It’s looking like a 2 and possibly 3 tier price increase on Wednesday, for Pd and Pt Eagles respectively. Currently the 2024 APdE has sold 4,740, out of a possible max of 7,500. VinnyC or Rick, any chance you can run the report on those for availability? Also the 2025 APtE has reported sales of 4,005, out of a possible max of 9,000.
Sorry for the delay @Caliskier I was getting Database Errors on CN earlier.
25EJ: 2428 (APtE)
24EJ: 4057 (APtE)
24EK: 1148 (APdE)
As an example for the APdE run the following and search for “ats”. I ran it often enough that my browser remembers it. The product code is case sensitive.
https://www.usmint.gov/on/demandware.store/Sites-USM-Site/default/Product-Variation?pid=24EK
Hi Vinnie ,Thank again for the link, I tried to run it to figure out how many 2025 proof sets are still available, for some reason this one doesn’t work, it worked well on the Kennedy halves and some others, any idea how to get this?
@Mmk I got 161,392
https://www.usmint.gov/on/demandware.store/Sites-USM-Site/default/Product-Variation?pid=25RG
Thank you!!
Vinnie, not to worry about the delay and thank you so very much for the effort to look up, as well as post the data and link! After getting over my brain lock, assumptions, self limiting thoughts, thinking that my ability to do this search on my phone was not possible, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was possible to do this on my end! A little more challenging due to limited screen size, however my problem was errantly thinking for some silly reason, this action was unable to be executed on my phone? Now that I… Read more »
Winner, winner, TWO chicken dinners! I added two GreatCollections First/Last coins to my collection.
First Gold Coin of the New Orleans Mint – 1839-O Quarter Eagle (NCG AU-58)
Last Gold Coin of the Carson City Mint – 1893-CC Half Eagle (NCG AU-55)(CAC Green)
The check goes out today.
REB: congrats! I enjoy watching you build your firsts and lasts collection.
Ditto HarryB,
Way to go REB, what a remarkable collection that you are putting together.
I took a look at your CC, and I’ll say this. The Green sticker isn’t there just for decoration. The coin would be in a 53 holder without it imo. That great golden-orange color outlining the perimeter & devices just oozes originality.
As with your other classic gold, when it’s finally in hand, it will look and feel great!
Rick: I’m curious about the quarter eagle. The weak reverse strike/wear on the “2 1/2” seems substantial. But, I haven’t seen the coin pop up much in great condition. I’m banking on the grade and “the coin always looks better in person” vibe. The omega to the 1839 alpha and the alpha to the 1893 omega will be pricey acquisitions. The 1909-O Indian Half Eagle will likely run five figures, and the 1870-CC Liberty Head Half Eagle will be over $100k. There are fewer than 100 known examples of Carson City’s first gold $5 piece. I read that PCGS has… Read more »
“That great golden-orange color outlining the perimeter & devices just oozes originality.”
Rick, you sound like you have a future in Stack’s Bowers catalog writing department!
Thanks, HarryB.
I enjoy the hunt and the history. To gaze upon objects so old and consequential is sobering. I think about the excitement of the Mint workers with their first release and the sadness of those presiding over the last. I ponder the circumstances behind the handling and previous “ownership” of the coin. I suppose wanting to hear and understand those stories is part of the curse/blessing of being a history major … and a coin collector.
Congratulations Reb, that is awesome! I’m getting inspired and may have to begin work on some form of Type Set? I also really like what E1 and Rick have been doing, regarding their “Kennedy Short” set collections? Thanks guys for sharing your purchases, pictures, knowledge and experience! John Q, do you have any advice on a relatively inexpensive Type set? Perhaps, less than $5,000? Harry B? Anyone else? Perhaps I could think about doing a $2.50 gold Type set? I really want a $2.50 or $5 Indian Head gold coin at some point. Good luck and happy collecting everyone! PS… Read more »
Cali: I thought of a cool set/collection idea – ONE coin of every denomination and design. Different Mints, different metals, one collection. You could start with one Liberty Head Half Eagle. If you decided to expand, you could delve into some of the varieties. Or you could move on to the Indian Head or Classic Head Half Eagle. Think how interesting a collection of one-cent designs would be – from the large cent to the Lincoln varieties. I’d better stop writing here or I’ll dive into another rabbit hole. First/last mint coins, early commems with original holders, and 1960-to-present precious… Read more »
Thanks Reb, I think(haha), for the suggestion! I say think, as once grasping your idea, I went over to GC to take a peek at the 1/2 Cent/Large Cent and Small Cent categories, for an initial assessment and view of number of coins available. Upon noticing how dark the coins were from toning, due to age and metal type, I immediately thought I’d definitely prefer gold coins! Cha Ching! Haha Well as most here are aware, gold is the least susceptible to toning, whereas, silver and copper are the most susceptible. I don’t mind toning per se, when attractive, which… Read more »
@REB you’re going full steam ahead and I have yet to get a budget Dahlonega like a 1846-D/D Half Eagle. Congratulations on your latest acquisitions.
Thanks, VinnieC. I can be pretty headstrong and persistent when I get going on something. Action may slow a bit until the fish start biting again. 1854-S Dollar, I lost you once. Same goes for you, 1870-CC and 1893-CC Silver Dollars. Some are going to require a bigger line (1870-CC $5, 1909-O $5, 1795 Capped Bust Half Eagle, and 1792 Half Disme/1793 Half Cent and/or Chained Cent). I’ll get ’em all in time. In the meantime, I’ll assuage my collecting zeal with hero proofs – the Walking Liberty military branch privies and DC Comics gold. Throw in a Palladium, a… Read more »
Good Job, Cc gold always nice……
Gentlemen – we are at the century mark in posts to this article and I would like to thank all for posting new remarks at the END!!!
Much appreciated – especially when I’m on my cell phone
Navy all the way! I’ll pick up some Army ones for gifts of friends in that service.
NAVY
ARMY both family servicemen
REB, “Rick: I’m curious about the quarter eagle. The weak reverse strike/wear on the “2 1/2” seems substantial.” First off, that is a great looking coin(pic for all to drool over⇊). Secondly, it is roughly the size of a dime struck nearly 200 years ago. Thirdly and more importantly, that is a common trait on the High Date w/Wide Fraction Variety(your coin). The reverse on your coin has a strong & detailed strike from mid-Shield and up(Nice Shield). The Top Pop 200k MS65 has the exact same reverse traits that your coin does, including the cool die crack(same die). One… Read more »
Thanks, Rick. Some illuminating and applicable information there. I can see that I need to add Winter’s New Orleans and Carson City gold books to my collection.
“subtle undertones of Autumn Apricot” – LOL. I’m snorting my beverage of choice through my nose. You went right from apprentice to Master Class in one stunning paragraph. You just put their “handsome russet tab toning [and] dusky antique gold tinting” to shame.
Lol, haha, it just came out.
I don’t think that I’m too far off either? I thoroughly like that coin. Great color, with great Character.
A Presentation Case(E1 style) might be considered for your growing First/Last Mint Gold Coin Set?
Let us know if Ian/GC sends you one of his blue 6-coin boxes. A 5-figure invoice sometimes does the trick, so you never know!?
“Let us know if Ian/GC sends you one of his blue 6-coin boxes. A 5-figure invoice sometimes does the trick, so you never know!?” Fingers crossed. If I got one, I’d certainly fill it up immediately. The 1861-D will likely remain in its own special box. Everything else needs a home. Slabtastic stacking is becoming unwieldy. Ian/GC, if you’re reading … pretty please …? P.S. – I ordered Gold Coins of the New Orleans Mint from Amazon. The Carson City book appears to be out of print and wildly expensive. I’m haggling on eBay for a copy. I think I’ll… Read more »
“The Top Pop 200k MS65 has the exact same reverse traits that your coin does, including the cool die crack(same die).” You might remember that my 1838-C Half Eagle has a die crack as well. My question, based on an admittedly small sample size of evidence: were die cracks (more) common in the early 19th Century than in any other period of American minting? Both the New Orleans and Charlotte cracks were from first-year coins. Were these imperfections common at other new mints? The Dahlonega Mint book suggests that the Georgia mint’s employees and personal standards were more exacting than… Read more »
Well, my research/copy/paste fingers are on break at the moment regarding early 19th century Mint technology, steel strength, supply, and work ethic.
It would make sense though, that if those things were lacking and/or unavailable, then die deterioration & cracking would be more common?
In the late 1800’s we see some perimeter cracking going on with many of the $1 silver coins. Below is a nice ungraded GSA 1885 CC that’s headed to the grading room soon, cracks and all…
PS: Hint for the desktop & laptop users viewing pics. Click a photo to expand it as usual – you’re not done yet if you want more zoom.
1) Right click the expanded photo.
2) Click on “open image in new tab”
3) Go to the new tab(up top ⇈) to view an even larger photo.
4) If your arrow/cursor has a plus ⊕ icon, click for more zoom yet.
5) Click the ⊖ to reduce, move to the next area, click again, etc…
It doesn’t always work, depending on the photo. Some already know, some may not.
Thanks for the tip. This will be helpful. Before I would tap to enlarge the picture and be taken to the next photo. And they say old dogs can’t learn new tricks. Not if the dog has a good trainer!
Rick: knowledgeable coin guy; auction catalog writer; tech and coin photography wizard; dog trainer extraordinaire; and sometimes, early 19th century Mint technology, steel strength, supply, and work ethic researcher.
Rick: knowledgeable this; tech trainer that…
Only when he should instead be performing: honey-do this; fix that around the house & yard instead of coin blogging all day lol. I better get out there!
But thank you REB, much obliged & enjoy jumping in when possible.
Interesting Reb, with no practical experience to draw from, the best I can offer is what I’ve stumbled across in researching. Sounds like the D $2.5 and $5 in many instances are on par with P. However, the excerpt below regarding D gold $1’s, are not so good, according to a PCGS article “Dahlonega Gold Dollars: An Introduction & Overview” by Doug Winter, that says: “Viewed as a group, the 13 gold dollars from the Dahlonega Mint are the worst-produced series of any United States issues made from 1795 onward. These coins have given the Dahlonega Mint the reputation of… Read more »
Interesting, Cali. Yep, the D dollars surely aren’t their claim to fame. Admittedly, most of my interest was in the half eagle. Many of the Charlotte $5 coins’ mintmarks are barely visible, even in higher grades. Some dealers called it the “ghost C”. Dahlonega’s “D” and features are usually pretty strong on the coin.
I look forward to delving into Mr. Winter’s article. The man knows more about southern mint gold than almost anyone on earth. All the dealers I met spoke highly of him and his books. They keep clamoring for the next editions.
I just read the article. I might quibble with the author on one point. I believe the museum in the old courthouse has one of EVERY coin minted in Dahlonega, including ALL of the dollars. As I recall, they were not slabbed or graded, but I think they were all there. As memory serves, the coins were displayed in front of a safe but behind glass. There was an armed guard present. Maybe Mr. Winter was referring to private graded collections,
My friend has 5 5′ tall cabinets stuffed full of silver eagles and Morgan Dollars
For the Half dollar fans out there. The U.S. Mint has changed the Half Dollar Subscription description. The pic shows the 2025 Kennedy and now has the following description: “Next Product in Subscription: 2026 Half Dollar Two-Roll Set, Ships 2026. In place of the image of President John F. Kennedy and the Presidential Coat of Arms, the 2026 half dollar will feature new designs celebrating our Nation’s 250th anniversary. A John F. Kennedy design will return to the half dollar in 2027. If you would like to pause your subscription for 2026, you can do so by logging into your… Read more »
Nice, we will see in Circulation as much as we see Hally’s Comet
Update on above post/reply from a couple days ago to Michael C(Sun) : RE: 2025 250th Anniversary American Eagle U.S. Army Privy Silver Proof Coin Household Limit(HHL)? I said: “Just now attempted to send one to Acting Director, Kristie McNally.” I thought it would get snared, however my e-mail(shorter version, w/o portion I suggested to omit) landed and here is the response I received yesterday(Monday). “Good afternoon CaliSkier(my real name vs screen name, haha), Thank you for the input on our household order limits for the AE Silver Eagles with privy marks to celebrate the 250thAnniversaries of the Marine… Read more »
Great Job, Cali but these maroons lift limits I. One day even for the Enhanced Rev ASS and FHG, so their ‘base’ can stock up further….
E1, Yes, I’m here! For some reason, both my iPad and iPhone stopped letting me Post on here! Also, when a Post is long, it goes to “Read More” and when I tapped on that , nothing would “expand” so I wasn’t able to read long Posts! I have an old IPhone but my iPad is only a year and a half old, it was a $950 iPad so it wasn’t a cheap one and I can’t even upload apps or Post here. So that’s the Main reason I haven’t been Posting AND Rick was correct, after I came back… Read more »
AKBob,
Glad to hear you are doing well. Sounds like you’ve been busy stacking too. There was a website snafoo here that kept all of us from posting and reading last week. So, it’s not your equipment. Some of us old fudders get a little concerned when we don’t hear from one of our old friends after a while. Welcome Back!
Cheers
E1 @Toners,
“Rick,
What do you think?”
Those sure are vibrant & colorful, but not my speed in those instances. Notice that NONE of them are in holders, only raw. At least the one guy is straight with his buyers when he says “Questionable Monster Toning” because that’s what the TPG’s would put on the holders, if even holdered at all.
The other guy probably has burning eyes from overexposure to Sulphur Dioxide in his garage lab lol. The Blue/Purple is a telltale to Artificial Toning imo…
https://www.ebay.com/str/metallichistory?_pgn=1&_trksid=p4429486.m3561.l170197&_tab=shop
Velour wrapping inhe Sun……hmmmm
Thanks Rick. I wanted to ask first and glad I did. I almost went for the “Questionable Monster.”
Thanks Bro
ASE Army Privy HHL decreased to 1 on product schedule page
Huzzah!
THESE SILVER EAGLES WOULD LOOK BETTER IF THEY HAD THE DUAL DATES OF 1775-2025 NEAR THE SERVICE EMBLEM
So. I actually broke down to buy some Florida Shuttle AI$. I look only bags, look the next day ONLY D bags, No rolls, so despite wanting P and D I BIUGT THE d bags. Looks, looks, today rolls, bags, everything Florida…. The Bob Dylan song they’ll stone yeah relates to the Mint, they’ll skrew u any which way they can. Wait for tomorrow, Army sales likely another big Cluster, lest Cali, yes CALI getting limit o one helps, for a day…
After around 18 minutes I was able to start the purchase. I have the order# in my email, so hopefully I’m good to go 1 down and I think 2 to go.
The mint keeps raising the prices – because they can, this makes it harder to collect.
They have become a for profit business and the website on lower mintage coins is not fun anymore.
Looking at reducing my purchases.
But I did get my AE Army Privy ordered