Explained: What Should Be Done With Broken Proof or UNC Sets?

In numismatics, Proof and Uncirculated (UNC) sets hold significant value not only because of the coins they contain but also due to their originality, official packaging, and authenticity. A concerning trend among some dealers is the practice of breaking these sets and selling individual coins separately, which raises important questions for collectors and the community.

For instance, consider the 150th Birth Anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak UNC set. Issued by the India Government Mint, Mumbai, it was designed as a single collectible unit containing two coins—a ₹100 and a ₹5—housed in official packaging with a certificate of authenticity. However, many of these sets were dismantled, and the coins were sold individually. While this may satisfy buyers who are only interested in either the lower or higher denomination coin, the practice ultimately undermines the integrity of the original issue.

The reason behind this trend is largely commercial. Dealers often find that breaking sets yields more profit than selling them intact. The demand for specific denomination coins further fuels this, as collectors sometimes purchase them separately, inadvertently supporting the breakup of sets. Another contributing factor is the lack of awareness among new collectors about the importance of preserving a set in the form in which it was issued.

Once a set is broken, its originality is permanently lost. An intact set with official packaging and certificate holds significantly greater collectible value in the long run compared to loose coins sold individually. Moreover, dismantling sets misleads the market by creating a false sense of scarcity for individual coins, often marketed as “rare” or “exclusive.”

The numismatic community must address this issue through informed choices. Collectors should be encouraged to acquire complete sets rather than purchasing coins separated from broken sets. If buyers collectively refuse to purchase dismantled pieces, the incentive for dealers to break sets will decline. At the same time, efforts must be made to raise awareness about why intact sets are more valuable, not just financially but also in terms of preserving historical integrity.

The only valid reason for breaking a Proof or UNC set is when coins are intended to be graded by professional services such as NGC, PCGS, or NGS. These grading agencies require the coin to be removed from the original mint packaging so it can be securely encapsulated in a tamper-proof holder after evaluation. Grading can enhance a coin’s market value, especially if it achieves a high grade such as PF69 or PF70 for Proof coins, or MS69 or MS70 for UNC coins. It also provides independent verification of authenticity and condition, which is particularly important for collectors seeking long-term investment potential. However, once a set is broken for grading, it can no longer be restored to its original state as a complete, mint-issued package. Therefore, grading should be pursued selectively and primarily for coins of exceptional quality, rarity, or historical importance.

If you have such coins—whether graded or not—it is essential to store them in high-quality, acid‑free capsules like those made by Lighthouse. These capsules provide protection from moisture, dust, and chemical reactions that can cause toning or damage over time, ensuring your coins remain in pristine condition for years to come.

Ultimately, every Proof or UNC set is more than a group of coins. It represents a carefully curated release by the mint, carrying historical and cultural significance. Preserving these sets in their original form safeguards their authenticity, ensures long-term appreciation in value, and upholds the integrity of numismatics as a discipline.