United States Proof coins had been reintroduced in 1936 after a two-decade hiatus and were popular. Despite their popularity, 1942 marked a temporary endpoint as the Second World War interrupted Proof coinage. In the April 1943 edition of The Numismatist, a note explained: “The Superintendent of the Philadelphia Mint has stated to all inquiries for current proof sets that ‘In view of the extremely heavy demand for coinage and service medals, the facilities of the Mint are taxed almost beyond capacity. Due to this fact, the striking of proof coins will necessarily be delayed for an indefinite period.’” This “indefinite period” proved to be about eight years as Proof production did not resume until 1950.
Proof sets dated 1942 included both subtypes of Jefferson nickel: the copper-nickel version in production since 1938 and the new copper-silver-manganese alloy developed to save nickel for the war effort. Numerous 1942 Proof coins, including partial and complete six-coin sets in third-party holders, are offered in Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ April 10 Collectors Choice Online Auction. Of note is lot 94291, a 1942 Proof Walking Liberty half dollar. PCGS graded the coin Proof-66. It resides in a Generation 3.1 Old Green Holder, which means that it was graded at some point between 1993 and 1998, according to PCGS’ Museum of Coin Holders. The coin also has received a green CAC sticker.
The entire April 10 CCO Auction of U.S. coins is available for viewing and bidding at StacksBowers.com. To consign to an upcoming Stack’s Bowers Galleries Showcase or CCO auction call 800-458-4646 or email Consign@StacksBowers.com.
