1982-S 1c-50c Proof Set, 5 Coins PR

Original Packaging: The coins were mounted in a red plastic insert that was fitted between an upper and lower casing of transparent plastic. These parts were set within a black plastic frame bearing on its lower border the words UNITED STATES PROOF SET in silver letters. The frame included a slot into which the transparent casing could be inserted for desktop display. A black cardboard box housed the assembled set, and the words “UNITED STATES PROOF SET • 1982” were printed on it in silver script.

When no dollar coins were struck in 1982, the Mint was left with a large remaining stock of Proof set holders designed to fit the Anthony dollar. Rather than discard them at a loss, the Mint filled the dollar coin’s hole with a bronze medal prepared from existing hubs. The obverse featured the familiar Treasury Department seal, while the reverse displayed the American eagle surrounded by the words UNITED STATES PROOF SET. Unique to 1982 Proof sets, this medal was itself coined in Proof.

Commentary: The high mintage of this year’s Proof set is something of a mystery, as 1982 offered nothing special to the collector, save for the curious Proof medal that filled a vacancy left by the now­-­suspended Anthony dollar. In any case, this high mintage took its toll on the value of uncertified Proofs. This set is seemingly a bargain at current prices.

The composition of the cent was changed drastically midway through 1982 to address the rising price of copper. Though the new cents of zinc with a copper plating were produced for circulation alongside those of the traditional composition, all Proof cents of this date are of the 95% copper, 5% zinc alloy used in previous years. Also changed during the course of the 1982 regular coinage was the obverse hub of the cent, the new obverse having a portrait of slightly reduced size and a distinctly smaller date. All of the Proof cents, however, have the older style obverse with its large date.

Yet another S mintmark appeared in 1982, but it was not transitional, as it was used for all the Proofs of this date and through 1984. This mintmark featured distinct serifs at top and bottom.

Note: The Proof sets of 1977 and later years have a uniform cameo quality to them, with even deep or ultra cameo pieces being commonplace. Though the certified population data published by the major grading services may include non­-­cameo pieces, these were likely certified before the current language was adopted. It may be assumed that all such Proofs are cameo at the very least.

Source: Whitman