Super Newbie Question, S mint

[lara4228]

lol, I've been on here awhile and am not ashamed of posting in this here section!

S Mint.

Why is this one mint mark desired so much by collectors?

Why do I read from time to time that if you find an S mm you hold onto it?

Lara

[jcuve]

Typically the San Francisco Mint had lower production numbers (not always, but frequently) and also the proofs started being solely minted there, another rare find in change.

[lara4228]

how would one know what is a proof and what isn't?

[jcuve]

Proofs look different. Polished surfaces, flat uniform rims - they will tone differently. Once in a while one is found in change. But really it is the earlier years on coin where typically the S versions have lower mintages and are highly coveted.

[lara4228]

so lower years meaning...70's 60's 50's 40's 30's ,etc.?

Does anyone have a pic of a proof coin? Just for the curious ey?

[jcuve]

I can take one later for you...

[eaxtellcoin]

Lara, Here is a pic of a 68-S Proof and a 68-S buisness strike. Hope they help... Eric

[coinman2009]

Also no business strikes W/ s mint made between 1956-1968, Although rumored some were made in 64 w/ no s, Also rumored less strikes per die set at San Francisco, Meaning Nicer Coin's! A Good Question! Nice To Keep Us Thinking! Enjoy!

[lara4228]

Coinman2009, that is my job! And believe me, even as I learn and grow to understand as much about these coins as you all do, I will still find some sort of stupid question to ask :P

[lara4228]

Lara, Here is a pic of a 68-S Proof and a 68-S buisness strike. Hope they help... Eric

Wow there is quite a visible difference between the 2. You can see, well I can anyway, a difference is craftsmanship between the 2 strikes.

[koinmon]

The "S" mint coins have always had a certain Aura to me as an older Eastern USA collector; finding few in roll searching, buying what was needed at coin shows and shops. And most of all always desireing the 1909S-VDB but never willing to fork out the big bucks to aquire it.
George

[Roller]

I think its the "S"; it is a mysterious letter. There's something magical about that open "8" or infinity symbol.

[jcuve]

Here, a comparison between a 1969-S business strike and a proof:

[hasfam]

I used to get excited when I came across S mint coins, but not anymore and not for a long time. Not unless the S is on the right date.

[atarian]

interesting pictures. I never looked at the 68-74S for any difference in strikes. Perhaps i should . Just another thing to keep me up late at night.