How Can I Determine the Difference Between a 1952 Proof Set and an Uncirculated Set?

Examine the packaging of the set. To determine the difference between a 1952 proof set and an uncirculated set, you can look at the labels and the condition of the packaging. The 1952 proof set was originally packaged in a cardboard box with paper tape. The coins came in cellophane sleeves that were stapled at the top and wrapped with tissue paper. There is also a label within the packaging that states the year of the proof set. An uncirculated set will be sold in a leather case that says "Uncirculated Set."

Count the number of coins in the set. The 1952 proof set had five coins: the half dollar, quarter, dime, nickel and penny. An uncirculated set can either have five or six coins, resulting from the inclusion of the quarter dollar. The difference between the quarter and the quarter dollar is that the quarter dollar says "One Dollar" on the back of the coin.

Compare the pictures and the dates of the coins in the coin sets with your regular coins. The 1952 proof set had coins that resembled the regular coins. They also had a single date on them. The only difference that occurred in the 1952 proof set was that some of the sets had a quarter with an "S" on the eagle's chest. Uncirculated sets have coins with different designs from that of the regular quarters. For example, some may have pictures of different presidents or monuments, or have more than one date on them.

Examine the finish of each coin. The 1952 proof set had coins with a very shiny finish, unlike the regular finish of the regular coins. The coins of the uncirculated sets may appear shiny, but not as shiny as those of the 1952 proof set.