1996 Proof Set

The 1996 United States Proof Set is a highly regarded collection of proof coins, released by the U.S. Mint as part of their annual series. The set includes coins from the year 1996, one of the more notable years in the history of U.S. coinage due to the absence of a regular mintmark for the penny and the debut of the updated dime design. The coins were struck at the U.S. Mint facilities in Philadelphia, and as with all proof sets, they were specially struck to ensure a mirror-like finish and sharp details, which are not present on business strike coins.

The 1996 Proof Set includes a total of seven coins, which represent a complete range of circulating denominations, with the addition of a proof coin of the silver Roosevelt dime. The set includes the penny, nickel, dime, quarter, half dollar, dollar, and the unique "1996-W" Kennedy half dollar, which is only available in proof sets. This coin is particularly significant as it is the only version of the 1996 Kennedy half dollar to carry the "W" mintmark for the West Point Mint, a mintmark typically reserved for the production of gold and silver coins, making it a rare and desirable item for collectors.

The penny in this set features the Lincoln Memorial design on the reverse, a design that was used on the U.S. penny from 1959 to 2008. The reverse features the famous Lincoln Memorial, while the obverse bears the portrait of President Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. The 1996 penny is minted in copper-plated zinc and is one of the last coins to feature the Memorial reverse before the release of the shield design in 2010.

The 1996 nickel displays the traditional "Monticello" reverse, designed by Felix Schlag, depicting President Thomas Jefferson’s home. On the obverse is a portrait of Jefferson, which has been used on the nickel since its introduction in 1938. The nickel is struck in a combination of copper and nickel and has a composition similar to previous years, with a weight of 5.0 grams and a diameter of 21.2 mm.

The 1996 dime is of particular interest, as it is the first year of a slight design change that remains on the dime today. This coin features the traditional reverse image of a torch, olive branch, and oak branch, as designed by John R. Sinnock. The obverse remains the same with the iconic portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt. This design has been in use since 1946, making it one of the longest-running designs for any U.S. coin. The dime is struck in 91.67% silver, making it the only silver coin in the 1996 proof set.

The quarter features the standard design of George Washington’s portrait on the obverse, designed by John Flanagan, which has been in use since 1932. The reverse depicts a rendition of Washington’s profile, which was originally created by sculptor John Flanagan. The 1996 quarter is made of a copper-nickel clad composition, and the design was retained until the 50-state quarter series started in 1999, which introduced different designs for each state.

The 1996 half dollar features the classic design of John F. Kennedy, which has been used on the coin since 1964. The obverse bears the profile of Kennedy, created by Gilroy Roberts, while the reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, features the presidential seal. The 1996 proof set includes a very special half dollar with the "W" mintmark, indicating it was produced at the West Point Mint, where special coin types and proof coins are struck. This makes the 1996-W Kennedy half dollar particularly coveted by collectors, as it was the only year it was available from the West Point Mint and is one of the most popular modern U.S. coin issues among collectors. The coin is struck in a copper-nickel clad composition.

The 1996 dollar coin, also known as the "Eisenhower" dollar in this set, was made of copper-nickel clad and is part of the circulation series. This coin represents the work of sculptor Frank Gasparro, with the reverse featuring the image of the Liberty Bell and the obverse showcasing President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s portrait. The coin was issued as part of a short-lived series between 1971 and 1978. In 1996, the dollar coin featured an updated design that was more in line with the U.S. Mint’s general release series. The design remains a collector favorite today.

The 1996 Proof Set’s overall packaging and presentation contribute significantly to its appeal. The set comes in a durable plastic case with a protective outer box. The coins are neatly displayed, each in a separate compartment, with the coins securely held in place to avoid damage. Inside, the set includes a certificate of authenticity and an information card that describes each coin’s features and background. These sets are often appreciated by collectors for their high quality and the attractive presentation of the coins.

In terms of mintage, the 1996 Proof Set was produced in significant quantities, with a total of approximately 1.4 million sets minted. However, the inclusion of the "W" mintmarked Kennedy half dollar, coupled with the overall quality of the set, makes it a sought-after piece among collectors. The 1996 Proof Set represents a significant moment in the U.S. Mint’s history, as it marked one of the last years of certain traditional coin designs, most notably the Lincoln Memorial penny, which was replaced with the Shield penny in 2010.

Overall, the 1996 U.S. Proof Set is a highly collectible and significant piece for numismatists. It is a testament to the artistry, history, and legacy of U.S. coinage. With its historical designs, particularly the "W" mintmarked Kennedy half dollar, and its high quality, the set remains an essential addition to any collector’s portfolio. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, the 1996 Proof Set offers a piece of American history that is sure to impress.

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• Year: 1996
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