Appearing as the first silver proof set to contain the new America the Beautiful Quarters Program strikes, the United States Mint today released the 2010 America the Beautiful Quarters Silver Proof Set.
Silver sets have been available from the US Mint since 1992. It was not until 2004, however, that the Mint began creating one to feature only the quarter-dollars issued for a year.
Included in this year’s set are the following five coins:
- Hot Springs National Park Quarter
- Yellowstone National Park Quarter
- Yosemite National Park Quarter
- Grand Canyon National Park Quarter
- Mount Hood National Forest Quarter
These strikes represent locations found in the states of Arkansas, Wyoming, California, Arizona and Oregon, respectively.
As of this set’s release, only one of the coins represented in it is available in general circulation – the Hot Springs strike. It made its debut back on April 20th. The next coin to find its way into circulation will be the Yellowstone Quarter with a release ceremony scheduled for June 3rd.
Of course, the coins found in this set are quite different from the circulation quality strikes. Obviously, and most importantly, each coin in the set is struck from 90% silver. When added together, the five coins of the set total 0.904 troy ounces of silver giving the set an intrinsic value alone of over $16 based on today’s silver spot.
Also, each coin of the set is struck to proof quality. To complete this process, the Mint starts off with coin blanks that are treated, polished and cleaned. These special blanks are then fed into the Mint’s presses which are fitted with specially polished dies. Each coin is then struck at least twice to insure a good impression.
The result of this process are coins that feature an intricate level of detail not usually seen on the average circulation quality piece. Also, proof coins show a mirror-like background adding to the eye appeal of each strike.
The America the Beautiful Quarters Silver Proof Set sells for $32.95, plus the Mint’s standard shipping and handling charge of $4.95 per order.
To place an order, visit the Mint’s website found at www.usmint.gov, or call the toll-free number 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468).