Find the best 1979 coin proof sets for seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. This guide highlights five relevant 1979-themed proof sets, explains who each is best for, and shows how to compare options quickly. Ideal buyers include those seeking the first year of the Susan B. Anthony dollar, those building a 1970s U.S. proof set collection, and investors looking to preserve original packaging. Below is a quick buying table and concise descriptions to help you choose wisely.
| Product | Mint Type | Set Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979 Clad Proof Set Type 1 U.S. Mint Government Packaging OGP | San Francisco (S) | Proof Set | Collectors seeking first-year SBA dollar with original packaging |
| 1979 S -1981 US Mint Set Clad Proof Set Run 18 Coins | San Francisco/Denver (S/D) | Proof Set Run | Collectors building 1979–1981 cross-year set |
| 1979 U.S. Proof Set in Original Government Packaging | San Francisco (S) | Proof Set | Purists who want the 1979 SBA dollar in mint packaging |
| 1979 Uncirculated Coin Set U.S Mint Original Government Packaging OGP | Philadelphia/Denver (P/D) | Uncirculated | Uncirculated collection with original packaging |
| 1970 S -1979 US Mint Set Clad Proof Set Run 57 coins | Multiple Mints | Proof Set Run | Broad 1970s proof set expansion including 1979 |
1979 Clad Proof Set Type 1 U.S. Mint Government Packaging OGP
Best for buyers who want the inaugural 1979 SBA dollar in proof condition with original packaging. This 6-coin set includes Susan B. Anthony dollar, Kennedy half, Washington quarter, Roosevelt dime, Jefferson nickel, and Lincoln cent. All coins are copper-nickel clad and carry the San Francisco mint mark. The Type 1 “Filled S” variation is of particular interest to specialists tracking minting varieties. Prospective purchasers should note that packaging may show wear and there is no certificate of authenticity for pre-1990 sets. This is a period piece that emphasizes original presentation as part of its value.
Who it’s best for: a collector focused on first-year SBA dollar sets in authentic government packaging and who appreciates pre-1990 mint presentation. Why selected: it captures the SBA dollar’s debut year in a classic proof set with premium mirror surfaces. Caution: signs of packaging wear can influence resale aesthetics for some buyers.
1979 S -1981 US Mint Set Clad Proof Set Run 18 Coins
Better for collectors who want multiple-year completeness around the 1979 period, including the 18-coin clad proof run. This set spans 1979–1981, featuring a mix of San Francisco mint proofs and other coins typical for proof sets of that era. Best for those expanding a mid-to-late 70s collection with consistent proof presentation. Selection reason: it centers on the 1979 issue while offering related years to enhance display continuity. Caution: this item is a run with a broader scope; verify coin varieties and packaging if precise year-by-year tracking is essential.
1979 U.S. Proof Set in Original Government Packaging
Choose this if you want the 1979 proof set with the SBA dollar in mint packaging and the classic U.S. Mint presentation. This 6-coin clad set includes the cent, nickel, dime, quarter, half dollar, and SBA dollar, all bearing the San Francisco “S” mint mark in proof condition. Best for purists who value packaging authenticity and the 1979 SBA dollar’s debut year. Limitation: pre-1990 sets typically do not include a certificate of authenticity, so consider display or provenance needs when evaluating value.
1979 Uncirculated Coin Set U.S Mint Original Government Packaging OGP
Best for buyers seeking an uncirculated presentation rather than proof surfaces. This 12-coin set includes Philadelphia and Denver mint issues of the SBA dollar, Kennedy half, Washington quarter, Roosevelt dime, Jefferson nickel, and Lincoln cent. The mint-state condition is a key feature for those assembling pristine, uncirculated displays. Selection rationale: it expands the 1979 presentation with duplicate mint coverage and a higher coin count. Caution: as an uncirculated set, some collectors prefer proofs for mirror finishes and heightened eye appeal.
1970 S -1979 US Mint Set Clad Proof Set Run 57 coins
Choose this broader run if you want a comprehensive look at the 1970s proof set era with emphasis on 1979 within a 57-coin collection. This multi-year set provides context for how the 1979 issues compare to earlier and later years, including the SBA dollar’s introduction in 1979. Best for collectors building a wide decade-spanning collection and who value cross-year comparisons. Limitation: the scope is large, which may be less convenient for buyers seeking a singular focus on 1979 alone.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Mint condition and packaging: Decide if original government packaging and mint marks (S or D) matter more than surface quality.
- Year focus vs. run collections: If you want a strict 1979 focus, prefer single-year proofs; if you want context, runs including multiple years are valuable.
- Certificate of authenticity: Pre-1990 sets typically lack COAs; consider how important authenticity documentation is for you.
- Coin finishes: Proof vs. uncirculated surfaces offer different aesthetics and resale appeal. Decide which finish aligns with your display goals.
- Completeness and coin count: 6-coin sets offer focused completeness; larger runs broaden historical coverage but require more space and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What defines a 1979 proof set?
A 1979 proof set includes the standard 6-coin clad lineup for that year (cent, nickel, dime, quarter, half, SBA dollar) with proof finishes and often San Francisco mint marks. - Is original packaging important for value?
Packaging can matter to collectors who prize authenticity and presentation; however, it does not always determine monetary value. - What is the significance of the Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979?
1979 marked the first circulation year for the SBA dollar, making its appearance in a proof or uncirculated set historically notable for collectors. - Should I buy a proof set or an uncirculated set from 1979?
Choose proofs for mirror finishes and traditional display appeal; choose uncirculated for mint-state surfaces and broader mint coverage. - Do all 1979 proof sets have COAs?
Most pre-1990 proof sets did not include a certificate of authenticity; verify the listing if COA is a requirement for your collection. - Can I mix this year into a larger 1970s collection?
Yes, but ensure the overall condition and packaging align with your display and valuation preferences.