The latest United States Mint coin sales figures indicate a slower start for the 2011 Proof Set which includes numismatic proof versions of the fourteen coins that will be in circulation this year.
Debuting six day sales were 253,144 between their release on Tuesday, January 11, to Sunday, January 16.
That is the weakest start in the past several years despite its long first reporting sales period. As an example, the 2010 Proof Set started near 300,000 during its first four days.
US Mint Proof Set Sales Debut Figures
| Issue Price |
Coins | Issue Date |
1st Sales Date |
1st Reported Sales |
Ending Mintages |
|
| 2011 Proof Set | $31.95 | 14 | January 11, 2011 | January 16, 2011 | 253,144 | Still on Sale |
| 2010 Proof Set | $31.95 | 14 | July 22, 2010 |
July 25, 2010 |
296,379 | Still on Sale |
| 2009 Proof Set | $29.95 | 18 | June 1, 2009 |
June 7, 2009 |
437,178 | 1,477,967* |
| 2008 Proof Set | $26.95 | 14 | June 24, 2008 |
July 6, 2008 |
424,402 | 1,405,674 |
| 2007 Proof Set | $26.95 | 14 | July 19, 2007 |
July 22, 2007 |
386,476 | 1,702,116 |
*2009 figures are unaudited.
There could be a number of factors as to why sales have started slower, ranging from its earlier than normal release — its been at least a decade since the proof set launched so earlier in the year, marketing material not yet sent out to customers letting them know it is available, and collectors realizing they have many more months before they make a purchase.
The older 2010 Proof Set is still available, and expectations are that it will remain so until later this year. Their weekly sales climbed 5,378 to 1,051,196. It was the second best performing numismatic product last week.
Both 2010 and the 2011 Proof Set may be purchased directly through the US Mint’s online store at:
Orders may also be placed using the Mint’s toll-free number, 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Hearing and speech-impaired customers may order by calling 1-888-321-MINT (6468).
The most important cause for the sales decrease is not mentioned: the announcement of the sweeping price increases at the mint has forced many collectors to stop collecting.