My Journey with a Box of 100 CAC Type Set

After stepping away from coin collecting for about ten years, I’ve jumped back in with both feet. I pulled my old coins out of storage, sent some to NGC and PCGS for slabbing, and chased CAC stickers where I could. This got me thinking about starting a “Box of 100” collection – a tight set where I only add a new piece if I sell one first to keep it at exactly 100 spots. I haven’t filled all slots yet, but this approach makes me really think about every addition. My focus? Affordable U.S. business strike type coins that show how designs changed over 230 years without costing a fortune.

My Self-Imposed Collection Rules

To keep things fun and manageable, I set some ground rules that help me balance quality with what I can actually afford. Here’s what keeps me on track:

• Coins must come from the U.S. Mint or early government contracts (like the Fugio Cent)
• Only business strikes – no proofs, though I make rare exceptions for SMS coins
• I skip designs I don’t personally like – this isn’t about being complete, just collecting what speaks to me
• Everything gets slabbed by PCGS, NGC, or CACG for protection and peace of mind
• I add CAC stickers whenever possible for that extra quality check
• All coins stay between $50-$500 – no budget busters allowed
• Grades vary wildly – from well-loved circulated pieces to fresh mint-state examples – whatever shows the type best at my price point

Highlights and Insights from My Collection

My set currently holds 83 coins, with some real favorites across denominations. My half cents include an 1806 Draped Bust (PCGS VF25 Brown CAC), while cents feature gems like a 1909 Lincoln VDB (PCGS MS65 Red Brown CAC). Mixing grades has been eye-opening – pairing my worn 1795 Liberty Cap cent (NGC AG3 CAC) with a sharp 1943-S steel cent (PCGS MS66 CAC) creates a great visual story of U.S. coinage. One thing I’ve learned? Always go for strong eye appeal. My 1818 quarter (PCGS G6 CAC) has fantastic character despite its low grade.

Grading and Market Observations

Grading really shapes this hobby. I’ve seen how CAC stickers add value, particularly for mid-range coins – 65 of mine have green beans, and 2 have gold. Sticking to my $50-$500 range means I can land key types without overpaying; most cost between $100-$300 (think Seated Liberty dimes or Barber quarters). Here’s my advice: don’t feel pressured to build an all-mint-state set unless money’s no object. Circulated coins often carry more history and charm at lower prices, and CAC helps spot the best examples within your budget.

Collection Statistics and Trends

Here’s where my set stands today – might help if you’re planning something similar:

• Denominations: Half dollars lead with 16 coins, then quarters (11) and cents (12). Love this mix!
• Grading spread: Real variety here – 3 in AG, 6 in AU, 16 in MS65. Proof that beauty isn’t tied to grade.
• Price points: Most land in the $100-$350 sweet spot, with just a few over $500.
• Slabs: More PCGS (56) than NGC (27), but I enjoy both – I’ll admit I geek out over slab generations!

Future Goals and Practical Tips

With 17 slots open, I’m hunting specific types that won’t break the bank. This year, I’m after a Lincoln Memorial cent (1959-1982), a clad Washington quarter, and a Morgan dollar – all under $500. My advice? Focus on types you truly love that fit your budget; I skip pricey rarities like early gold in favor of attainable pieces. Also, re-slab coins in scratched holders to keep things looking sharp – I need to do this for my 1854 half cent. Remember, this should bring joy, not stress: if a coin stops exciting you, sell it (I have) to make room for something better.

Building this Box of 100 has taught me to collect with purpose. It’s a satisfying way to explore U.S. coin history without emptying your wallet, and I’ll keep tweaking it with each new find. Happy hunting!