October 5, 2010: Proof Silver Eagles Announced, Panama Pacific Exposition Coins, Barber Half Dollars

Welcome back to Coin Update!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles form all over the internet! First, the big announcement that proof versions of the 2010 American Silver Eagle will be available for sale starting November 19. Also, the less noted cancellation of a few other collectible precious metals products, two coin market reports, new $100 bill delayed, Panama Pacific Exposition commemorative coins, Perth Mint expands, gold and silver commentary and price predictions, Barber Half Dollar series, and notable auctions. On to the links…

The biggest story for coin collectors this week is the confirmation from the US Mint that 2010 Proof Silver Eagles will be available. Follow the link for some early impressions from Mint News Blog.

While the most popular collector offerings will be issued this year, the 2010-W Uncirculated Gold and Silver Eagles have been canceled. The collectible uncirculated or “burnished” coins have not been issued since 2008.

Some coin market reports following the Long Beach and Whitman Philadelphia shows from Pinnacle Rarities and Doug Winter, which explain the “Long Beach curse” the the advent of the “Lucky Charms” grade.

Late Friday, the BEP announced that the release of the newly designed $100 bill will be delayed with no new issue date available. Previously, the new notes were scheduled for release on February 10, 2011.

A “Manhattan-based business man” has been arrested for his alleged role in stealing millions of dollars worth of coins from dealer Julian Leidman.

Stack’s News provides the story behind the Panama Pacific Exposition coins, with particular focus on the $50 gold coins.

The Perth Mint is planning to expand following the increased demand for gold. Quote from the article, “You don’t face demand like this and sit back and watch it go by – you do something about it.”

The price of gold has set another fresh all-time high and silver has reached it’s highest price since March 1980. Here’s the latest precious metals commentary from Patrick Heller.

Gold price forecasts have been growing more optimistic. Lorimer Wilson has compiled a list of 65 analysts, academics, economists, and financial writers who have a target price of $5,000 or more for an ounce of gold.

Numismaster provides a look at the Barber Half Dollars.

The Royal Canadian Mint’s coins feature more than just Maple Leaves, here are holiday issues featuring pine cones and snowflakes with Swarovski elements.

And now for some notable auctions. First, an impressive collection of 123 proof and uncirculated commemorative silver dollars from 1983 to present.

With the 2010-dated coins coming up, here is a collection of 1986 to 2008 Proof Silver Eagles, with all coins graded NGC PF 69 Ultra Cameo.

Last, the 1971 “No S” Jefferson Nickel, one of a few modern proof coins minted in small numbers without a mint mark.

That’s it for this update. See you later this week!