My Journey Building a “Box of 100” CAC Type Set

After taking nearly a decade off from coin collecting, I’ve dived back in with renewed passion, focusing on reorganizing my collection under the “Box of 100” concept. It’s been an exhilarating ride, full of insights on affordable type sets, grading strategies, and the thrill of hunting for CAC-approved coins.

Reorganizing My Collection with “Box of 100” Rules

I pulled my coins out of safe deposit storage and started fresh with a strict limit: only 100 spots, meaning any new addition requires selling or replacing an existing coin. This forces me to be selective and intentional. My set, whimsically named “The Maine One Hundred Coin Type Set,” centers on U.S. business strike coins spanning over 230 years, with a focus on diversity and affordability. Here are the self-imposed rules I follow to keep it manageable:

• Coins must be struck by the U.S. Mint or under government contract (like the Fugio Cent).
• Stick to business strikes only—no proofs, with rare exceptions for SMS coins.
• Include only designs I genuinely love, skipping many modern types to avoid exhaustiveness.
• All coins must be slabbed by PCGS, NGC, or CACG.
• Require a CAC sticker when available for the type.
• Keep each coin affordable, priced between $50 and $500.

I embrace a mix of grades—from low balls to high mint-state—to reflect historical context and budget realities. For instance, a circulated AG3 cent can showcase incredible character, while an MS66 nickel might highlight pristine detail. This variety makes the set more dynamic and cost-effective, as chasing all MS grades could quickly drain funds.

Overview of My Type Set and Key Stats

Currently, my collection holds 83 coins, with 17 spots still open. I’ve prioritized CAC approval where possible, and the stats reveal some fascinating patterns:

• CAC Stickers: 65 green, 2 gold, 1 pending submission, and 15 where CAC isn’t available.
• Grading Services: 56 coins in PCGS slabs, 27 in NGC.
• Denominations: Half cents (3), cents (12), two-cent pieces (1), three-cent pieces (2), half dimes (4), five-cent pieces (8), dimes (7), twenty-cent pieces (1), quarter dollars (11), half dollars (16), silver dollars (5), dollars (8), gold dollars (3), quarter eagles (1), half eagles (1).
• Grade Distribution: Ranges from AG3 to MS70, with the bulk in AU and MS grades—like 16 coins at MS65.
• Estimated Values: Most fall in the $100–$300 range, with only a few exceeding $500, keeping the set accessible.

Notable coins include a 1795 Liberty Cap Cent in AG3 with wholesome wear, a 1921 Peace Dollar in AU53 with high relief, and a 1943-S Steel Cent in MS66—each chosen for its type representation and visual appeal. I also enjoy collecting unique slabs, such as NGC “Fatty” generations, adding an extra layer of fun to the hobby.

Practical Advice on Grading and Market Insights

Through this project, I’ve gathered invaluable tips for fellow collectors. First, always buy the best coin you can afford when opportunities arise—patience pays off in snagging quality pieces. CAC stickers add confidence in grade and value, but they’re not essential for every coin; focus on them for key types where the premium matters. Market-wise, sticking to the $50–$500 range helps avoid overspending, and circulated coins often offer the best value with rich histories. For grading, I recommend:

• Prioritize eye appeal over numeric grades—a VF35 with strong details can outshine a dull MS coin.
• Consider re-slabbing if slabs are damaged; I’m doing this for scratched holders to maintain presentation.
• Mix grades to balance cost and variety; for example, my set includes MS70 bullion coins alongside VG10 Barber halves.

Affordability is key in today’s market, and this approach prevents burnout while allowing for steady growth.

Future Goals and Collecting Strategy

Filling the remaining spots is my next big challenge, with a clear roadmap to stay focused. I’m targeting specific types for 2024, like a Lincoln Memorial Cent (1959–1982), a Jefferson Nickel with Monticello design, and a Morgan Dollar. My wish list includes rarer but affordable entries such as Draped Bust Cents and Three Cent Silver Type 2 coins. To avoid impulse buys, I keep a detailed list of desired types and set annual goals. When adding new coins, I’ll sell duplicates or less-loved pieces—like that 1900-S Dime I’m replacing—to maintain the “one in, one out” rule. This disciplined strategy ensures every addition enhances the set’s narrative without overcrowding.

Personal Reflections on the Journey

Building this “Box of 100” set has reignited my love for numismatics, teaching me that type collecting is about storytelling through coins. It’s rewarding to see the evolution of U.S. coinage in one curated space, and the focus on affordability makes it sustainable. I encourage others to try a similar approach—start small, set rules, and enjoy the hunt. With updates planned as I acquire new coins, this journey is far from over, and I’m excited to share more discoveries soon. Happy collecting!