Jay writes: Hi, I’m trying to figure out the value of some PCGS Roosevelt dimes that grade PF69 Deep Cameo from 1964 to present. I can only find prices up to 1964. Help.
The lack of a price list may be because there is not a widely accepted two way market for these coins. You might check listings in the Coin World newspaper to see dealer ads that list modern cameo proofs for sale. I discovered that if you offer these coins for sale to dealers they either refuse to buy or offer a price significantly below their sell price. This indicates that this market is currently rather thin
This a strange area of collecting since everyone can purchase modern proof sets for very reasonable prices, in some cases, far below the Mint’s issue price. Removing the coins from the sets, which are certainly hardly ever flawed and then sending them to a grading service that agrees that they are not flawed and then grades them “69” or “70” miraculously changes a lowly mass produced modern proof into a valuable heirloom. Instant rarity by plastic.
“Frosted” coins, known as “cameos” because of the contrast between the devices exist on both uncirculated and proof coins of various eras and was originally the result of preparing a new set of dies for use. This effect is popular enough that the Mint, in modern times, has struck proof cameos for many years.
Unfortunately, a skilled person can reproduce this etched effect by the judicious use of acid carefully painted on the devices and this has been done to coins that normally or rarely are found to have the cameo effect. Of course the acid is being applied to the coin and not the die so small errors, such as etching the field around the devices often give the altered coin away.
If this area really excites your collecting interest, try searching for cameos in original sets and send them in to the grading services yourself. You will know for sure that they are original and your cost per coin will be nominal. View proof sets at most local coin shows or at your local coin shop. Most dealers will let you go through their entire stock if you are willing to buy enough to pay for their time.
