Value of complete 1868 proof set, in velvet case 0

[RWB]

As we think about today's value of an 1868 proof set, in a custom velvet case, 120 years ago it was barely marketable.

 

George E. Voorhes,

Hardware and Iron Merchant

Morristown, N.J.

 July 9, 1896

 My Dear Sir:

            Among the effects of my brother who has just dies is a complete set of U.S. coins in a velvet case, of the issue of 1868, from $20 gold down to 1-cent bronze. They are in same condition as when first issued from the mine, in fact they are in the case made especially for them.

            Will you kindly let me know if they are worth more than their face value, and also will you refer me to some party, if you know of such person, who would be likely to want them?

            Yours truly,

            James R. Voorhes, Administrator

 Reply:

            A full proof set of the U.S. coins of 1868 is worth about $51.00. We don’t know of any collector that would purchase. Coin dealers would not pay so much as the above value.

Mc [Clure, Curator]

Edited September 26, 2020 by RWB

[gmarguli]

Makes perfect sense. It'd be like today saying that you found a 1992 proof set in the original mint box.

[RWB]

Heritage Auction = $9,487.50 for silver and minor.

Gold = ?

 

[MarkFeld]

17 minutes ago, RWB said:

Heritage Auction = $9,487.50 for silver and minor.

Gold = ?

 

Unless that was a very long time ago, the coins certainly weren’t all “gems”.

[RWB]

Writer says in original condition and original case. Case would likely be similar to that used for 1868 aluminum sets - purple velvet.