Building My Dream ‘Box of 100’ CAC Type Set

After a decade away from coin collecting, I jumped back in a few months ago and felt that familiar spark reignite. I pulled everything from my safe deposit box, sent some pieces to NGC and PCGS for grading or fresh slabs, and was thrilled to see many come back with CAC stickers. Now I’m reorganizing under my “Box of 100” rules – a fixed-size collection where adding a new coin means swapping out an old one. Officially it’s “The Maine One Hundred Coin Type Set,” though honestly it’s more like “100 Affordable U.S. Business Strike Type Coins That Earned CAC’s Blessing.” Here’s how this project is shaping up.

My Collection Philosophy and Rules

Type collecting lets me enjoy the full sweep of U.S. coin design across 230 years without chasing every date and mint mark. To keep it fun and focused, I play by strict rules:

• Only U.S. Mint or government-contracted coins (like the Fugio Cent)
• Business strikes only – no proofs, though I make rare exceptions for SMS coins
• Every coin must genuinely delight me – I skip modern designs that don’t excite me
• PCGS, NGC, or CACG slabs only
• CAC sticker required when available for that type
• Sticking to my $50–$500 comfort zone keeps the set achievable

This approach gives me a quality collection without draining my wallet. You’ll find everything from AG3 to MS70 here – I’ve got a real soft spot for circulated coins with character, so mint-state pieces aren’t required.

What My Type Set Taught Me

Variety makes collecting richer and more affordable. My 1806 Half Cent (VF25 Brown CAC) and 1923 Silver Dollar (MS65 CAC) share shelf space happily. This mix lets me own historically important types without overspending. Hunting for “cool” older slabs like NGC “Fatty” holders adds another layer of enjoyment – it’s become a mini-quest within the main collection.

That $50–$500 range keeps me grounded. Of my current 83 coins, most landed in the $100–$300 sweet spot. Staying disciplined means I can pursue types I truly love, like early cents or seated liberties, rather than stretching for rarities.

Tips for Building Your Own Set

If you’re considering a similar approach, here’s what works for me:

• When you spot a great coin in your budget, grab it – waiting for perfection often means missing out
• Mix circulated and mint-state grades – it adds character and saves cash versus all-MS sets
• CAC stickers matter – 65 of my 83 have green or gold approval, which really helps with quality confidence
• Expect some slab maintenance – I’ve had to reholder coins like my 1854 Half Cent due to scratches
• Make every addition count – swapping coins forces me to keep only what I truly love

Just swapped out a decent 1900-S Dime (AU58 CAC) for something that sparks more joy – curation keeps the collection fresh.

Where Things Stand

Currently at 83 coins with 17 spots left, here’s the breakdown:

• Denominations: Strong on half dollars (16) and quarters (11), plus gold dollars and commemoratives
• Grades: AG3 to MS70, with MS65 being most common (16 coins)
• CAC Status: 65 green stickers, 2 gold, only 15 without available stickers
• Value: Mostly $100–$300 – staying true to my budget approach

My 2024 hunt list includes affordable types like Lincoln Memorial Cents (1959–1982), Jefferson Nickels with Monticello, and Morgans. Still eyeing a Draped Bust Cent or Liberty Seated Dime that fits my rules.

Final Thoughts

Rebuilding this set has reminded me why I collect – it’s about personal connection, not just grades or rarity. I’ll keep sharing updates as I add pieces like that Lafayette commemorative dollar I’ve been eyeing. If you start your own type set, focus on what makes your collector’s heart beat faster, keep it affordable, and savor every find. Happy hunting!