So here are the results of my $500 experiment. I ended up with 23 Philly mint Bicentennials that might never have much more than face value although perhaps my kids and g-kids (if I have them) may find them fun, especially g-kids as they get older and we're heading for the TriCentennial (if the U.S. is still around).
I did find a 1993 clad S mint proof that must have come from someone's collection. Its luster (the pix isn't very good but it will cast a glow on your finger if held above it) is what caught my eye, and maybe the sound as well but the weight is the same as other clads. Currently, really nice ones of this are going for a couple of bucks on ebay.
I also kept out a very nice condition (still had an edge to the rim and good luster) a 1971 clad because I saw so many 1971. coins. This will be my remembrance of my experiment. I don't think I would do this again because I don't think there's much to find in bank rolls anymore (at least in my metro location)...
P.S. I will go back and see if I missed any S mint (this is where the "proof" sets are made it appears) and any of the common misprints (there's only a couple for Denver and Philly mint coins) of the half dollars but the chances are very low finding anything more of value.
Bookmarks