1963 1c-50c Proof Set, 5 Coins PR

Original Packaging: The five coins were sealed into a single pliofilm envelope with pockets for each coin, a sixth pocket containing an embossed and printed paper seal reading US MINT PHILADELPHIA in blue on a silver background. The set was protected from damage by two strips of cardstock, and all three pieces were inserted, along with a brief fact sheet, into a buff-colored mailing envelope. This carried a pre­-­printed return address and a discreet notation of its contents.

Commentary: Somewhat fewer Proof sets were sold in 1963 than the previous year. This does not reflect any lessened demand. Instead, it just reveals the Mint’s estimated capacity for filling orders.

The popularity of coin collecting was at its very height in 1963­ and 1964, with sales of coin folders and related hobby products at an all­-­time high. Proof sets shared in this widespread interest, though the greater focus of speculators at the time was placed on rolls and even bags of Uncirculated, recent­-­date coinage. As with the Proof set speculation of 1956­ and 1957, this fad ultimately collapsed under its own weight, in 1964. Though its demise left many fair­-­weather collectors holding the bag (literally), the general level of excitement the hobby experienced in the years 1960­ to ­1964 created more lasting collectors than there had been in the 1950s.

Several doubled­-­die reverse varieties are known for the Proof dimes of 1963. Three of these are readily discernible with a low­-­power magnifying glass, and they bring substantial premiums over the value of normal Proofs. Cameo and deep cameo Proofs are available for all denominations of this date, and both Proof specialists and type collectors eagerly seek them for their beauty. The half dollar is a particular favorite, being the final year of the Franklin/Liberty Bell type. While forming a minority of the more than three million Proofs coined of each denomination, these coins are rare only with deep cameo contrast on both sides. One­-­sided cameo and deep cameo pieces may be found, too. Though they are worthy of premium prices, grading companies will not certify them with these designations when only one side is frosted. NGC will sometimes award such one­-­sided cameos its star (*) designation to indicate a coin having superior eye appeal but which does merit labeling as cameo or ultra cameo.

Source: Whitman