1996-S 1c-50c Clad Proof Set, 5 Coins PR

Original Packaging: A two­-­piece, transparent plastic casing with frosted borders held a green fiberboard insert containing holes for the coins. This was slipped into a green cardboard box upon which the words “UNITED STATES MINT PROOF SET • 1996” were printed in silver script.

Commentary: Not since 1960 had there been a regular Proof set with such a modest mintage! Interest in these sets was perhaps at an all­-­time low, as they competed with silver Proof sets, commemorative coins, and American Eagle bullion coins for the collector’s disposable income. While the current value of uncertified 1996 sets is surprisingly low, it is likely that this set will prove to be a winner in the long run.

This year’s Prestige Proof set featured one clad half dollar and one silver dollar from among the several issues of the 1996 Olympiad. This set had a shockingly low mintage of only 55,000 units sold! As noted for the Premier Proof sets, however, the coins themselves were available in much larger numbers, and it is only the unique packaging option that is rare. Should a broader market for these rare variants ever emerge, this set will become a highly sought item.

Source: Whitman