My Adventure with a ‘Box of 100’ CAC Type Set

After a decade away from the hobby, I jumped back into coin collecting by starting my own “Box of 100” type set. The idea of building a focused, affordable collection really appealed to me – just 100 slots to showcase key U.S. coin designs. What began as an organizational challenge turned into this wonderful journey through history, art, and pure collecting joy. I’d love to share how this project reignited my passion.

The Ground Rules That Keep Me Sane

To make this collection both achievable and meaningful, I set some personal guidelines that might help you too:

• Stick to U.S. Mint or government-contracted issues (like the Fugio Cent) to cover our coinage history
• Focus on business strikes – I’ll occasionally make room for SMS coins but avoid proofs to keep costs reasonable
• Only include coins I genuinely connect with – modern issues that don’t speak to me get left out
• PCGS or NGC slabs only for authenticity, and I’ll always chase that CAC sticker when possible
• Keep it affordable: $50-500 per coin means I can enjoy the hunt without guilt

I’ve grown to love the character in lower-grade coins – my set spans from AG3 to MS70. That worn Seated Liberty dollar tells a richer story than a pristine one ever could. And I’ll admit, I’ve developed a soft spot for those older “fatty” PCGS holders – they’re like little time capsules!

Where the Collection Stands Today

With 83 coins nestled in their slots, some patterns have emerged that might surprise you:

• Half dollars lead the pack with 16 representatives – but you’ll find everything from half cents to gold eagles
• Grades are all over the map: AG3 to MS70, with MS65 being most common at 16 coins
• Most pieces land in the $50-400 sweet spot – only a couple gold coins broke the $500 ceiling

Some real standouts? My 1795 Liberty Cap cent in AG3 – it’s got more personality than coins ten times its grade. And that 1913 Buffalo nickel in MS65 with a CAC sticker? Proof that eye appeal beats numbers every time. I’ve even sent a few scratched holders back for re-slabbing – presentation matters when you’re showing off your treasures!

Grading Lessons Learned the Hard Way

Through trial and error, I’ve picked up some grading wisdom worth sharing:

• Those green CAC stickers are worth pursuing – 65 of mine have them – but don’t sweat it for older coins where they’re rare
• Don’t tolerate scratched holders! Reslabbing preserves both value and display appeal
• Mixing grades creates visual interest and saves money – a toned VF Seated quarter often outshines a bland MS example

Market tip: CAC-approved coins in the $100-300 range, especially classic types like Mercury dimes, seem to hold value best. I’ve learned to watch for dips in those series.

What’s Next – And Advice For Your Own Set

With 17 slots still empty, my wishlist stays focused: a Lincoln Memorial cent, modern Jefferson nickel, and a decent Morgan – all under $500. Having specific targets keeps me from impulse buys.

If you’re considering a similar project, here’s what I’ve learned:

• Buy the best example you can reasonably afford when it surfaces, but embrace variety – identical grades look sterile
• Set your rules early – define what belongs and what doesn’t before you start hunting
• Enjoy the journey – photographing coins and sharing progress makes the experience richer

This “Box of 100” has become more than a collection – it’s a curated tour through American history that fits on my bookshelf. Give it a try – you might just rediscover why you fell in love with coins in the first place.