1954 1c-50c Proof Set, 5 Coins PR

Sales of Proof sets nearly doubled from 1953, and the Proofs of this date are indeed much more readily available than those of earlier years.

The change in packaging did cut down a bit on the tendency of Proof coins to suffer faint hairlines, but it also created a new problem. Proofs of this date stored in their original polyethylene envelopes, as well as 1955 Proofs in similar packaging, often show deep and unattractive toning. The combination of this plastic and the cardboard box could result in a somewhat purplish cast to the coins. Professional conservation is recommended for such pieces. Over the years, many have already been cleaned by their owners with mixed results.

The cents coined for circulation at the Philadelphia Mint in 1954 were often a bit dark, as made, but this doesn’t seem to have affected the Proof cents. Gem examples of all five denominations, while certainly not common, are available to collectors willing to pay market value. Cameo examples are somewhat more readily available for this date than for earlier ones, as the greater mintage prompted the use of more dies than previously. Because each die had a deep cameo finish when placed in the press for the first time, this created a greater pool of desirable Proofs. As always for pre­-­1970s Proofs, deep cameo examples remain rare.

Source: Whitman