1981 United States Proof Set Value Guide

The 1981 United States Proof Set is a significant six-coin collection marking the final year the Susan B. Anthony Dollar appeared in a standard annual set until 1999. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, these coins are prized for their high-contrast 'Cameo' finish achieved through specially polished dies and planchets.

What Is 1981 United States Proof Set Worth?

The typical price range for 1981 United States Proof Set is $12 - $14 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of the Type 2 'Clear S' mint mark on any coin, particularly the dollar, can significantly increase the set's market value.
• The physical condition of the plastic housing, as scratches or cracks on the lens can detract from the overall set price.
• The degree of 'Cameo' contrast on the coins, with deep, heavy frosting on the portraits being more desirable to collectors.
• The inclusion of the original black U.S. Mint outer mailing envelope and COA (Certificate of Authenticity).

How to Identify 1981 United States Proof Set?

• Check the 'S' mint mark for the Type 2 'Clear S' variety, which features a well-defined, bulbous 'S' compared to the Type 1 'Filled S'.
• Verify the presence of all six coins: Lincoln Cent, Jefferson Nickel, Roosevelt Dime, Washington Quarter, Kennedy Half Dollar, and Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
• Inspect the original purple-tinted plastic lens packaging and the black outer box for authentic U.S. Mint labeling.
• Look for mirror-like fields and frosted devices, a hallmark of the San Francisco Mint's proof production process.

History of 1981 United States Proof Set

The 1981 Proof Set is notable for being the final year the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was included in the standard annual proof set until its brief return in 1999. These sets were produced using specially polished dies and planchets, resulting in a high-contrast 'Cameo' finish. Collectors look for two distinct varieties of the 'S' mint mark in this year: Type 1 (Filled S) and Type 2 (Clear S), with the latter being significantly rarer and more valuable.