Special Mint Sets are a collection of coins minted by the U.S. Mint. These coins usually come with packaging and a set of coins.
This article will cover how they are valuable and whether they are worth collecting.
What is SMS in Coin Collecting
SMS stands for Special Mint Set. These are a set of coins that have been minted simultaneously and are not coins from circulation.
Instead, the U.S. Mint makes these sets available to collectors, who buy them and sell them back to other collectors at a higher price.
Why did the U.S. Mint make Special Mint Sets?
If you’re a coin collector, chances are good that you have heard of the U.S. Mint’s Special Mint Sets.
These sets have been produced since 1965 and have included coins issued by all three active mint facilities in Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
The U.S. Mint makes these sets an opportunity to celebrate anniversaries of particular coins or events related to American history or culture.
For example: In 1965, the U.S. Mint released a set commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Lincoln cent (the 1¢ coin).
This was also when two-toned copper-nickel cents were first issued (and replaced). In 1996, another special set was produced in honor of the 75th anniversary of this same coin.
It featured both traditional design and proof versions of each year from 1909 through 1964 with its original reverse face design intact instead of being changed as it did in 1968 when “In God We Trust” was added under Lincoln’s portrait engraved by Victor David Brenner.
All denominations except dimes lack thereof due to their low value compared to other denominations, which had higher face values but lower intrinsic values because they contained less silver than half dollars did during World War II.
So they could not afford many labor hours needed for finishing touches such as painting over the lettering with paint instead using stencils because there weren’t enough people left alive whose job required them doing so before being drafted into military service during World War II)
Characteristics of Special Mint Sets
A special mint set is a small collection of coins made at the United States Mint.
The U.S. Mint has created many of these sets over the years, each containing several coins.
Depending on how many are in the set, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $100 for it!
Some special mint sets have only one denomination, while others may contain two or more denominations (nickels, dimes, and quarters).
If your special mint set contains more than one type of coin, consider getting an extra album, so they don’t get mixed up accidentally!
Are Special Mint Sets Valuable?
Special Mint Sets are a great way to start your coin collection and can also be used to expand your collection.
These sets are valuable because they contain coins from each mint and the year in which the coin was made.
If you want to learn more about the history of coins, consider collecting Special Mint Sets.
The mints where these coins were produced can provide additional information about how the mint operates, their values, or why certain coins may be considered rare.
Is it Worth it to Collect Special Mint Sets?
Yes, special mint sets are worth collecting. They are a fun way to learn about coins and are easy to collect. Plus, they’re affordable and a great way to get started in coin collecting!
Before you go…
It’s more than just the coins that are important in coin collecting. The history behind them is also fascinating. When you understand what makes a coin unique, like its minting process or age, you can make smarter decisions about which ones to buy.
Check out my next article: “How to Tell if You Have a 1964 SMS Coin?“
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