U.S. Proof Coinage: 1860-1873
With the rise in coin collecting during the mid-1850s, an increasing number of numismatists learned of the proof coins struck by the Philadelphia Mint. Before the year 1858, however, collectors had to obtain their proof coins one at a time as the chief coiner was able to have each denomination made. This meant, for example, that proof dimes might be available in March while quarter dollar proofs not until August.
Mint Director James Ross Snowden, who strongly pushed the proof coinage program in ways reminiscent of modern times, decided in early 1858 that complete “silver” sets (which included the copper-nickel cent) and gold sets would be available early in the year, thus freeing the collector from the task of obtaining individual coins. This further increased sales, and several hundred sets were now sold to collectors. There was still the right to purchase single proof coins, however, for those who specialized.
For 1859 we know that 800 silver sets and 80 of gold were produced but do not know how many were actually obtained by collectors. With the exception of the silver dollar, which cost $1.08 for technical reasons, all such pieces were still sold for face value. The collector was responsible for the postage, however.
William DuBois, the semi-official curator of the Mint numismatic collection, wrote the director in late 1859 that the whole system of
