My Adventure Building ‘The Maine One Hundred Coin Type Set’

After a decade away from coin collecting, I jumped back in a few months ago with fresh energy. Opening my safe deposit box felt like catching up with old friends, and I sent several coins straight to NGC and PCGS for slabbing, re-slabbing, and CAC stickers. That’s how my ‘Maine One Hundred Coin Type Set’ began—a personal celebration of America’s coin designs across 230 years. Let me walk you through how I’m building it and what I’ve discovered.

The Heart of My ‘Box of 100’

Type collecting always called to me more than chasing every date and mint mark—it’s kinder on the wallet and really shows the story of U.S. coins. My ‘Box of 100’ rule keeps me honest: only 100 coins allowed. If a new one comes in, another goes out. Sitting at 83 coins now, I’m patiently hunting replacements when I trade pieces that don’t fit anymore. The theme? Business strikes under $500, mostly CAC-approved, covering major denominations without emptying my savings.

Rules That Keep Me Sane

To make this collection enjoyable and focused, I set some guardrails from past lessons:

• Coins must be U.S. Mint or government contract issues (like the Fugio Cent)
• Business strikes only—though I bent this for a couple SMS coins I couldn’t resist
• Only coins I truly love—no modern designs just to fill spots
• Everything slabbed by PCGS, NGC, or CACG for security
• CAC stickers where possible—they’re like a second opinion on quality
• $50-$500 per coin to maintain variety and accessibility

This mix-and-match approach showed me that combining grades—from AG3 well-loved coins to MS70 showpieces—creates a set with real character without costing a fortune. A circulated coin with great personality can shine as brightly as a pristine mint-state piece.

Collection Highlights That Tell Stories

With 83 coins in the box, I’ve found some real treasures that fit my ‘cool slabs’ mini-theme. Tracking PCGS and NGC holder changes through the years feels like uncovering numismatic history. Standouts include:

• 1795 Liberty Cap Cent in NGC AG3 CAC—packed with charm despite its grade
• 1857 Flying Eagle Cent in NGC XF45 CAC—sharp details and lovely toning
• 1921 Peace Dollar in PCGS AU53 CAC—showcasing that stunning high relief
• 1943-S Steel Cent in PCGS MS66 CAC—a wartime workhorse that’s surprisingly affordable

I lean toward CAC stickers when I can—65 green and 2 gold beaned coins so far. When CAC isn’t an option, eye appeal rules. Re-slabbing taught me to inspect holders carefully before buying—scratches hide until it’s too late! My stats tell the tale: 56 PCGS, 27 NGC, denominations from half cents to gold eagles, grades AG to MS70. Most landed in the $100-300 sweet spot, proving great type sets don’t require lottery winnings.

Hard-Won Tips for Fellow Collectors

Building this set gave me some practical wisdom I’d pass along:

• Budget Smart: Honor your spending limit and grab the best coin possible when it surfaces. Blending grades saves money—going all-Mint State would bankrupt most of us.
• Value CAC: For stickered types, CAC brings market trust. Submit in batches to cut costs, and re-slab damaged holders.
• Follow Your Joy: Only keep coins that thrill you. When my 1900-S Barber Dime stopped singing to me, I swapped it—that keeps the collection alive.
• Track Your Journey: Snap good photos and log details. My simple spreadsheet tracks grades, values, and CAC status to spot holes and avoid doubles.
• Mix It Up: Blend eras and metals to tell America’s full coin story—early coppers to modern bullion all have tales.

What’s Next in My Hunt

I’m itching to fill those last 17 slots over the coming years. My 2024 hit list includes a Lincoln Memorial Cent (1959-1982), a Monticello Jefferson Nickel, and a Morgan Dollar. I’m also watching for rarer types like a Draped Bust Half Dollar or Chopmarked Trade Dollar—always under $500. This structure keeps me focused and prevents wallet panic. As the set evolves, I’ll share more photos and holder tales—because honestly, the coins are just half the fun. The real magic is in the hunt.

Rediscovering this hobby has been pure delight. If you’re starting a type set, remember: keep costs sensible, embrace variety, and chase what makes your collector’s heart skip. Happy hunting!