Complete Set US Proof Sets 1955-1964 (10 sets)

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Any	$399.50	$403.50	$415.48

The Complete Set of U.S. Proof Sets from 1955 to 1964 represents a decade of American coinage crafted with precision and artistry. These ten sets, each produced by the Philadelphia Mint, highlight the evolution of U.S. proof coinage during a period marked by post-war prosperity and technological advancement. Collectors value this collection for its historical significance, stunning designs, and the remarkable quality of the proof coins, which showcase the meticulous craftsmanship of the era.

The proof sets from 1955 to 1964 include five coins each: the Lincoln Cent, Jefferson Nickel, Roosevelt Dime, Washington Quarter, and Franklin Half Dollar (1955-1963) or Kennedy Half Dollar (1964). These coins reflect enduring American themes, with designs that celebrate historical figures and national ideals. The obverse of each coin features a prominent American icon, while the reverse displays symbols of unity, strength, and prosperity. Together, these sets provide a comprehensive representation of mid-20th-century U.S. coinage.

The 1955 to 1964 proof sets capture a transitional era in U.S. numismatics. The 1955 set marked the first use of flat-pack packaging, which replaced the earlier boxed format. This innovation made proof sets more accessible and easier to store, contributing to their growing popularity among collectors. The period also saw the transition from the Franklin Half Dollar to the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964, a poignant tribute to President John F. Kennedy following his assassination. These changes reflect the Mint’s ability to adapt to cultural and practical shifts while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

The designs featured in the proof sets are iconic and have become synonymous with American coinage. The Lincoln Cent, introduced in 1909, features Victor David Brenner’s profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and, during this era, the Wheat Ears reverse design. The Jefferson Nickel, designed by Felix Schlag in 1938, depicts Thomas Jefferson’s profile on the obverse and Monticello on the reverse. The Roosevelt Dime, created by John R. Sinnock in 1946, honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt with a dignified portrait on the obverse and a reverse featuring a torch flanked by olive and oak branches. The Washington Quarter, designed by John Flanagan in 1932, displays George Washington’s profile on the obverse and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse. The Franklin Half Dollar, introduced in 1948, features Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse, while the Kennedy Half Dollar, first minted in 1964, portrays President Kennedy on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse.

Each proof coin in the 1955 to 1964 sets was struck with specially prepared dies and polished planchets, resulting in sharp details and brilliant, mirror-like fields. These coins were struck multiple times to achieve the clarity and depth characteristic of proof coinage. The quality of the strikes highlights the Philadelphia Mint’s commitment to excellence, with each coin serving as a miniature work of art. The introduction of modern packaging in 1955 further protected these coins, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

The mintage figures for the proof sets in this era reflect the growing popularity of coin collecting in the United States. The 1955 set, with a mintage of approximately 378,200, marked a significant increase over earlier years, signaling the rising demand for proof coins. By 1964, the mintage had soared to over 3.9 million, reflecting the widespread appeal of proof sets as both collectibles and investments. This growth underscores the role of proof sets in democratizing numismatics, making high-quality coinage accessible to a broader audience.

The coins in the 1955 to 1964 proof sets are celebrated for their exceptional condition and visual appeal. Proof coins are known for their pristine surfaces, sharp details, and frosted devices that contrast with the mirrored fields. Many examples from this period exhibit cameo or deep cameo finishes, where the raised design elements appear frosted against the brilliant background. These finishes, while not guaranteed for every coin, are highly sought after by collectors and add to the allure of the sets. Coins that remain in their original flat-pack packaging are particularly desirable, as the packaging helps to preserve the coins’ condition and originality.

The historical context of the 1955 to 1964 proof sets enhances their significance. This period saw the United States emerge as a global leader during the post-war era, with its coinage reflecting themes of progress, unity, and resilience. The introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964 was a poignant moment in U.S. history, symbolizing the nation’s mourning and admiration for a fallen leader. Collectors value these sets not only for their artistic merit but also for their ability to capture the spirit of an era.

The transition from the Franklin Half Dollar to the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964 marked a significant change in U.S. coinage. The Franklin Half Dollar, with its depiction of Benjamin Franklin and the Liberty Bell, celebrated the nation’s founding ideals and intellectual heritage. The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced just months after President Kennedy’s assassination, became an instant symbol of hope and remembrance. Both coins are masterfully executed, and their inclusion in the 1955 to 1964 proof sets adds depth and variety to the collection.

The Complete Set of U.S. Proof Sets from 1955 to 1964 is a cornerstone of mid-20th-century American numismatics. For seasoned collectors, the set offers a comprehensive look at a transformative decade in U.S. coinage, with coins that reflect both artistic excellence and historical significance. For new collectors, it provides an accessible entry point into the world of proof coinage, with each set offering a snapshot of the era in which it was produced. The combination of iconic designs, exceptional quality, and historical importance ensures the enduring appeal of these proof sets.

The Complete Set of U.S. Proof Sets from 1955 to 1964 is more than just a collection of coins; it is a celebration of American history, artistry, and innovation. Each set reflects the skill and dedication of the Philadelphia Mint, showcasing the best of U.S. coinage during a pivotal era. The sets’ combination of traditional designs, technological advancements, and historical significance make them a valuable addition to any collection. With their stunning visual appeal, rich historical context, and superb quality, the proof sets from this period stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of American coinage.