2015 年奖项

Expert Comments:
Every summer for 14 years we have selected the best sets to win major awards in the PCGS Set Registry. And, during this process, the Registry has become an historic record of major collections, both large and small, belonging to collectors all over the globe. These collections, current and retired, tell the story of people’s love of their hobby, their perseverance, fortitude, and determination to own the very best. Is the Registry competitive? No doubt, but through that competition, some of the world’s greatest coin collections have emerged. It has been an honor and a privilege to review your sets every year. Whether or not you were selected to be in the top tier this year, all of you are winners and we say, THANK YOU.

2015 PLATINUM LEVEL SETS

The Platinum level is awarded to currently active sets and collections which have won gold five years in a row and continue to be ranked number one. While no longer in contention for Gold, these sets deserve recognition for their high level of numismatic excellence.

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High Desert - Complete U.S. Type Set (1792-1964)

ESM - U.S. Half Cents & Cents Complete Set (1793-present)
U.S. Half Cents & Cents Complete Set with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1793-present)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

ESM - Half Cents with Major Varieties, Proof (1831-1857)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

Jim McGuigan - Half Cent Collection (1793-1857)
Half Cents with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1793-1857)
Half Cents with Major Varieties, Proof (1831-1857)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

The Castle Collection - Indian Cents with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1859-1909)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

Stewart Blay - Lincoln Cent Collection
Lincoln Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1909-1958)
Lincoln Cents Basic Set, Proof (1909-1958)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 4 sub-sets in this collection that are ranked #1)

Gerald Forsythe - Buffalo Nickel Collection (1913-1938)
Buffalo Nickels Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1913-1938)
Buffalo Nickels, Proof (1913-1937)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.)

Steve Strom - Jefferson Nickels FS Complete Variety Set, Circulation Strikes (1938-1964)

Ray Overby - Jefferson Nickels FS with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1965-present)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

Simpson - Liberty Seated Half Dimes with Major Varieties & 1870-S, Circulation Strikes (1837-1873)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.)

Gerry Fortin - Liberty Seated Dimes with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1837-1891)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

Wondercoin's Quarter Collection - Washington Quarters with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1932-Present)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 3 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.)

Douglas Rall (George and Friends) - Washington Statehood Quarters Basic Set, Circulation Strikes and Satin Finish (1999-2008)

Dale Friend - Early Half Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1794-1839)

Gerald Forsythe - Walking Liberty Half Dollar Collection (1916-1947)
Walking Liberty Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1916-1947)
Walking Liberty Half Dollars, Proof (1936-1942)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

EBL III Collection - Franklin Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Proof (1950-1963)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

PDShad's Complete JFK Collection - Kennedy Half Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1964-Present)

The Acadia Collection - Kennedy Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1964-Present)

Legend Collection - Trade Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1873-1878)

California 1 - Morgan Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

DT Miller by Ashmore - Morgan Dollars Prooflike with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 3 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.)

California 1 - Peace Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1921-1935)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

JE - Presidential Dollars FDI Major Variety Set -Presidential Dollars First Day of Issue with Major Edge Errors, Circulation Strikes (2007-2011)

The Donald A. Kutz $2 1/2 Indian Collection - Indian Head $2-1/2 Gold Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1908-1929)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

Simpson - St. Gaudens $20 Gold with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1907-1932)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

Paul Denby - Gold Commemoratives 13 Piece Set, Circulation Strikes (1903-1926)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.)

The Halwig Collection - Modern Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1982-present)

Palmetto Galleries - 1881 Proof Set with Gold

Robert H. Lande - California Fractional Gold - Complete Collection, Period One
(Note that the Platinum level includes 6 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.)

Just Having Fun - Philippines Coin Collection (1903-1945)
Philippines Basic Type Set, Circulation Strikes (1903-1945)
(Note that the Platinum level includes 8 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.)

Jimmy Austin's Best of the Worst - Peace Dollars, Low Ball (1921-1935)

Not Mint To Be--Pocketpiece Commemoratives - Silver Commemoratives 50 Piece Type Set, Low Ball (1892-1954)

Merrill Collection - Everyman Early Half Dollars (1794-1839)

Lantern Collection - Canadian Coins Complete Set with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1858-1952)

Caranett - Belgium Gold 20 Francs Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1865-1882)

Gray/Huber Dream Set - German States 3 Mark Type Set, Proof (1908-1918)

The T&JW Japan Gold Denomination Set - Japanese Gold Denomination Type Set (1870-1932)

Rod Moore Schützenfest - Modern Thalers - Swiss Shooting Festival Commemoratives 50 Francs (1984-present)

2015 GOLD LEVEL SETS

Best Classic Sets of 2015

High Desert - Complete U.S. Type Set, Circulation Strikes (1792-1964)
(Note that the award includes the 4 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) A complete 133-piece U.S. Type set with an average grade of 65.08! This of course includes the Chain Cent, 1792 Half Disme, 1796 Quarter, 1796-97 Half Dollar, 1796 No Stars $2.50, Capped Bust $5 (small size) and a host of other extremely tough type coins. While quite a few Set Registry categories are quite competitive, the High Desert Set utterly dominates this area, with the runner-up’s set rating trailing by 28 points! It is, quite simply, the finest U.S. Type Set ever put together.

Gobrecht's Raisinet Collection - Complete U.S. Coin Design Set No Gold (1792-present)
In 2008, this collector won gold as a Best New Set. This year he receives his third gold for a set that is beautifully exhibited. The owner, who is clearly passionate about his collection, offers highly educational comments about most of the coins in the set. In addition, nearly all of the coins are imaged either with the collector’s own pictures or PCGS TrueView. Take a peek. You’ll spend some quality time browsing through the 58 coins in this set.

Subway Tokens - Commemoratives Complete Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1892-present)
We’re all familiar with the traditional 50 and 144-piece sets of U.S. commemoratives from 1892 to 1954, but here is a massive 406 piece set encompassing every U.S. commemorative issued to the present day! Lacking only the two $50 Pan Pacs, the balance of the set is simply superb, with a weighted GPA of 68.68. Including numerous “finest knowns,” this is an outstanding achievement, and leads the second place set by more than two full grade points. This is Subway Tokens’ second gold for this incredible set.

Sonoran Monsoon - U.S. Dollars Complete Set with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1794-present)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The size and scope of a complete set of U.S. dollar coins including major varieties boggles the mind. There are over 234 coins just in the Sacagawea and Presidential Dollars alone! Not to mention the Bust, Seated, Morgan and Peace dollars. With a total of 533 coins, this set is 99.62% complete, lacking only the 1794 and 1870-S. Sonoran Monsoon’s dollar set has dominated the Registry since 2007, and is not only the finest current set, but the finest of all time, leading the set rating score by over 23 points! Kudos on the fifth gold award and for undertaking and having virtually completed such a monumental set.

High Desert - U.S. Half Cents & Cents Complete Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1793-present)
Starting with a 1796 Half Cent in MS65+RB and an MS-69 Wreath Cent, and including an 1877 Indian Cent in MS-66RD, this set can only be described as phenomenal. Every cent from 1839 through 1850 is a pop one, with NONE higher. With a set rating of 66.40 it is not only the current finest set, but the finest all-time set, eclipsing ESM’s Hall of Fame set from previous years. Of the 253 Lincoln cents, over 200 are graded MS67RD or better. Jaw-dropping quality and well deserving of a second gold!

KCV comp-Cir set - U.S. Nickels Complete Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1866-present)
After winning two Blue Awards over the past two years, KCV finally “gets the Gold” this year for this outstanding 282 piece set. It is 100% complete and carries a set rating of 65.79. A few of the highlights include an 1884 in MS-66+, a 1904, also in MS66+, and a 1935-D in MS-67. Well done.

Monte Weiner (The BigMo Collection) - Civil War Set with Gold (1861-1865)
Featuring the finest certified Reeded Edge 1795, as well as the famed Strawberry Leaf Wreath, one of the finest 1794 Starred Reverses, and both the plain edge and lettered edge “Jefferson Head” cents, the completion of this 67 piece variety set of early copper in any grade is formidable. With a set rating of almost 48, it is nearly impossible. It’s not just a factor of money. Many of these ultra rarities show up only a few times per decade, if that.

ESM - Half Cents with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1793-1857)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) ESM’s Half Cent collection is 100% complete, (including the 1796 No Pole, 1797 Gripped Edge and the 1802/0, Rev of 1800) and is one of only three sets to ever achieve completion. The 1793 is a choice MS63BN example, and the tough 1796 With Pole is a choice AU55. Our congratulations on another well-deserved Gold!

High Desert -Large Cents with Major Varieties (With the four Ultra Rarities), Circulation Strikes (1793-1857)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) American Numismatics was born with Large Cent collecting, and High Desert’s set currently sits atop the Set Registry. It is 100% complete including the Strawberry Leaf Wreath Cent, the 1795 Reeded Edge, and the two 1795 Jefferson Heads! And given that these ultra rarites only come in low grade, this set still manages an overall rating of 55! A very tough set and quite an accomplishment. After two Blue Stars, we are pleased to award a Gold Star.

ESM - Large Cents with Major Varieties (With the four Ultra Rarities), Circulation Strikes and Proof (1793-1857)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) While a complete collection of Large Cents in MS and Proof would be a major undertaking, when it includes the 1793 Strawberry Leaf Wreath Cent, the 1794 Starred Reverse, the 1795 Reeded Edge and both 1795 Jefferson Head Cents, all you can say is “wow.” The few “missing” coins are Coronet Proofs, which turn up say… about two or three times per century. With pedigrees from the Norweb, Eliasberg, Parmelee and Garrett collections, it doesn’t get much better than this. A well deserved third Gold.

Simpson - Shield Two Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1864-1873)
Near the threshold of perfection, Simpson’s set of Two Cent Pices in MS and Proof is a wonder to behold. Boasting a set rating of a mind-boggling 68.61, over half the set consists of finest knowns and every coin in the set is either full red, or a cameo. This is a new set this year, and has easily captured the Gold for the category. Check out the photos on the website.

TDP (tompet38) -Three Cent Nickels with Major Varieties, Proof (1865-1889)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) While this set contains no prohibitive rarities in terms of dates, it is the phenomenal quality of this set that sets it apart. Of the twenty-six issues in the set, half of them are un-improvable! With a set rating of 68.76, it looks more like a set of Presidential Dollars than 125-150 year old coins. It is truly quality like this that exemplifies what the Set Registry is all about. A well-deserved second Gold Award for 2015.

Legend Collection - Three Cent Silvers with Major Varieties and 1851, Proof (1851-1873)
(Note that the award includes the 3 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) This set was purchased intact four years ago, and now receives its third Gold award because the new owner continues to upgrade. It is 95.65% complete and has a set rating of 66.21. At the threshold of perfection.

The Greenbrier River Collection - Shield Nickels with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1866-1883)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) A Blue Star award winner in 2013 and a Gold Star winner in 2014, we proudly add a second Gold Star this year. And it is now 100% complete, adding the 1866/1866 this year and pushing the set rating to a phenomenal 68.825. Containing twenty “finest knowns” it is the best Shield Nickel set ever assembled, and more than nine points ahead of the runner-up. We are blown away by this one.

Richard Groman - Liberty Nickels Basic Set, Proof (1883-1912)
With a jaw dropping set rating of 68.76, this set truly borders on perfection. This marks his 13th year in the top spot in the category. We’re proud to award him his fifth Gold Star.

The Gately Collection - Buffalo Nickels with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1913-1938)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The Gately Collection of Buffalo Nickels is a most impressive accomplishment, featuring the finest known 1914-S, 1917-D and 1927-S, and, oh, did we mention the finest known 1918/17-D as well? More impressive, might even be the fact that 41 of the 71 coins sit at the top of the population, which for a series such as Buffalo nickels is no mean feat. This set continues to improve each year. Our congratulations on a fourth Gold Star, and eighth consecutive win in the category. Needless to say, this set is 100% complete and boasts a set rating of 66.91.

Simpson - Early Half Dimes with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1792-1837)
(Note that the award includes the 3 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) Yet another wonder-set, Simpson’s Bust Half dimes are complete (naturally) and half the set grades MS67 or higher. Nearly half the coins are un-improveable! Words fail us in describing the quality of this set. And how lucky we are that he has shared high-resolution photos of all his coins with us. Check them out if you haven’t already!

KDM - Capped Bust Half Dimes Die Variety Set by Logan-McCloskey, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837)
A past winner for the past four years KDM’s set continues to lead the category. This set is made up of exquisitely toned and original coins. With many pieces in Choice AU this set has the look and feel that many aspire to.

Easton Collection - Capped Bust Dimes with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1809-1837)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) Achieving 100% completeness with an average grade of 58.80 while only adding original beautifully toned coins is quite the accomplishment for a set dated 1809 – 1837! This set is ranked #1 and includes several finest known coins. It is the all-time finest even though the owner selects only those coins that fulfilled his criteria of originality and eye appeal. This set is a winner in both 2013 and 2014 and remains an ongoing project.

Varieties Incorporated - Barber Dimes with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1892-1916)
This is a highly competitive category, and with the “retirement” of the Simpson collection, Varieties Incorporated now takes the top spot. With a set rating just shy of 67, this 100% complete set takes home its first Gold Star award.

Gerald Forsythe - Mercury Dimes FB with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1916-1945)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) After having conquered Buffalo Nickels, Gerald has moved on to Mercury Dimes, and what an effort! Including varieties, the set is 100% complete and all sport Full Bands. This yields an astounding set rating of 69.65. If that’s not enough, look at it this way: Of the 80 coins in the set, 49 have a pop higher of zero! And these include the 16-D and the 21-D! A finer set would be difficult to imagine, much less put together. A well-deserved 3rd Gold Star award for this set.

Driftwood - Twenty Cents with 76-CC, Circulation Strikes (1875-1876)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The addition of the 1876-CC 20 Cent piece in 2013 turned this from a very nice set of four coins into a monster, five-piece set. Every coin is a Gem and the 1876-CC (MS66), from the Norweb collection, is one of the two finest examples graded thus far by PCGS. This is the ninth Gold Star award for this set and the twelfth year at the top spot for the category.

Link's - Capped Bust Quarters with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1815-1838)
(Note that the award includes the 5 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) This is an incredible set made of up many pop 1, finest known coins including the very scarce 1823/2 overdate. Over 2/3 of the coins sit on top of all others as the single finest example of the date. This set is a first year winner and has quickly eclipsed Eliasberg, Garrett, Norweb and other famous collections.

The Ohio Collector - Standing Liberty FH Quarters Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1916-1930)
With a set rating of 68.18 in a tough and beautifully-designed series, 97% (all but one) of the coins sport full heads and a third of the coins are top pops with none higher. Two thirds of the coins grade MS67FH or better and we offer our congratulations on a third Gold Star award.

The Diehl Washington Quarter Collection - Washington Quarters with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1932-Present)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The Diehl Washington Quarter Collection has done a fabulous job of acquiring many high end examples of circulation strike Washington Quarters and varieties in the series. Many of the coins have really low populations in high grades. Others like the 2013-D Fort McHenry Np Quarter have a pop of 1 with none finer. Simply a challenging, yet, very fun set to complete!

Don "myster" Peters - Washington Quarters with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1932-Present)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Washington Quarters have always been a very popular coin series. Competition in this series is always intense. Donmyster has successfully built a large and impressive set of both circulation strike and proof Washington Quarters. The set is almost 100% complete and it’s only missing the 1943 Doubled Die Obverse FS-103. Otherwise it’s a magnificent set and glad the owner decided to share it with us this year.

Brian Ray (The Buckeye Collection) - Washington Quarters Basic Set, Proof (1936-Present)
The Buckeye Collection has built an incredibly great set. Washington Quarters are extremely popular and in this set there are many high examples representing this fabulous series. Keep up the great work and look forward to seeing this set again next year.

Phillips Collection - Washington Quarters Complete Variety Set, Circulation Strikes (1932-1998)
Phillips Collection has amassed a very tough, yet, really fun set of Washington Quarters including many varieties. Many of the varieties are pop 1 coins with none being finer. The set still has lots of room for improvement making a very exciting set to work on. Keep up the great work and look forward to looking at any new additions.

Early Halves - Early Half Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1794-1839)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The ‘earlyhalves’ basic half dollar set is only two coins away from completion. Grades range from high end circulated up to mid-range mint state with an average grade of 55.8. Obviously a lot of care has gone into assembling these attractive representatives of this popular series.

Link's - Bust Half Dollars Prime Die Variety Set by Overton, Circulation Strikes (1794-1836)
A staggering accomplishment with 528 coins already listed! Completing this set is the “Holy Grail” of many early half dollar collectors and requires many years of patience, luck and persistence.

ChrisMor - Liberty Seated Half Dollars Complete Variety Set, Proof (1858-1891)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) A new winner this set is 100% complete with a GPA of 67.27. 20 of the 36 coin set are the finest known or tied for finest known. Not only that but all of the coins are beautifully toned with tremendous eye appeal.

Dr. and Mrs. Peter K. Shireman Collection - Barber Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1892-1915)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) As a multi-year winner this set continues to remain on top. It’s no wonder with over half of the coins (12 out of 20 to be exact) ranking as the finest known including 2 pop 1 coin. The average grade is 67.31. This set continues as a wonderful example of this popular and gorgeous design.

Bruce Morelan Collection of Early Dollars - Early Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Bruce’s set starts off with the incredible SP66 1794 $1. It continues with a total of 11 out of the 12 coins ranked as finest known (9) or tied for the finest known (3). The set boasts an incredible average grade of 65.67. Assembling and preserving such an inspiring group of these historical works of art is not only a great accomplishment but is a true service for future generations of numismatists.

Miller Collection - Early Dollars with Major Varieties and Silver Plug, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) This set is 100% complete and offers an attractive, high condition example of all the major varieties of our early dollars. It contains well matched examples of this difficult series and has been carefully assembled in very high condition. The set includes a 1794 in XF, a silver plug 1795, the finest known 1797 9x7 Large Stars and even the finest known 1798 Small Eagle 15 Stars in MS62+. Well matched for grade the set comes in with an average grade of 54.123.

Legend Collection of Mint State Seated Liberty Dollars - Liberty Seated Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1840-1873)
Simply put, this set of Seated Liberty Silver Dollars is the finest set ever assembled in the history of American numismatics. From a purely numismatic standpoint, the effort and resources that have gone into building this set are enormous. No other set in the category comes even close.

Perfection 11 - Liberty Seated Dollars Basic Set, Proof (1858-1873)
Mr. Perfection states that Seated Dollars are his favorite registry set. These iconic American coins are “simply beautiful.” They are not widely collected due to their cost. This set contains four coins that have no higher examples. Many Seated Dollars come dark. Mr. Perfection has passed over these even at higher grades in favor of toned coins where the colors are easily seen. He is trying to replace the lone DCAM in this set due to his belief that top Seated Dollars should be original and toned.

Tradedollarnut - Trade Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1873-1878)
As far as unbeatable sets go, we believe this one must certainly take the grand prize. Are you ready for this? Of the seventeen coins in this set, fourteen are pop 1, with none higher! Finest knowns, bar none. Two of the others are pop 2, with none finer! So in a nutshell, there is only ONE coin on earth that could improve this set. While our set registry contains some incredible sets, we don’t think any can top these statistics. Not to mention a set rating .064 points away from 68! A Hall of Fame Set, and recipient of a fifth Gold Star.

Simpson - Trade Dollars, Proof (1873-1885)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Just as tradedollarnut’s Mint State set almost defies improvement, Simpson’s set of Proofs does the same. For one thing, it’s complete, including both the 1884 and 1885. For another, of the thirteen coins, only a handful could be improved. The set rating of 66.81 is limited only by the existing coins. The finest 1885 graded by PCGS is a 63+ and the finest 1873 is a 64+. (Both of which are in this set, by the way.) Imagine a display of these two sets together!

IPS - Morgan Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) With the retirement of California 1 to Platinum, the IPS Morgan Dollar set steps up from Blue to Gold this year. And what a set! With a rating of 65.63 it now sits atop one of the most competitive sets in the entire registry. Hats off for a well deserved honor.

LeviRanchSet - Morgan Dollars Prooflike Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Morgan Dollar sets surely are among the most popular in the Registry. With DT Miller’s set by Ashmore having been “promoted” to Platinum status, the close runner up is now the LeviRanchSet, less than a half point behind! 73 of the 97 coins grade MS65 or higher. Our congrats on another well-deserved Gold Star.

David T. Miller and C. Ash Harrison (DT Miller by Ashmore) - Morgan Dollars Super Set, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
Here’s an amazing set accomplishment. The 329-piece set includes all the major “named” VAM varieties, including no fewer than 96 dated 1878! Miller/Ashmore has managed to acquire 99.39% of the required coins, and currently boasts a weighted GPA of 61.88. A Gold Star winner for 2013 & 2014, we are happy to award another for 2015.

Dr. and Mrs. Steven L. Duckor - One Dollar Gold Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1849-1889)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) A new award winner for 2013, just a look at the owner’s name will tell you it is something very special. How about a completion of 100% and a Set Rating of 66.88! Steven Duckor has brought us a set that will serve as a reference for years to come. Not only is this far and away the best Current set, but is also the finest set of all time. Nearly half of the coins are “0 pop higher” and all but 8 coins are MS66 or better, with sixteen MS68s or better! Quality like this is very rarely seen.

Have Fun With Your Coins - Indian Head $2-1/2 Gold, Proof (1908-1915)
Proof Gold has long been referred to as the Caviar of American Numismatics, and what a serving this set is. With a rating of 68.5, it is the finest ever assembled by 2 points.

The South Texas Collection - $3 Gold No 1870-S Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1854-1889)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) It’s not often you encounter a set where almost every coin in it is considered rare. But when it comes to $3 Gold Pieces, where only four of the forty coins had an original mintage over 35,000 pieces, very few can be considered common. It is 100% complete, and has some upgrade potential. We expect great things from this set in the years to come. Congratulations on a second Gold Star.

Tom Bender - $3 Gold with Major Varieties and 1855-S, Proof (1854-1889)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) With the acquisition of the extraordinarily rare 1855-S Proof $3, Tom’s set now appears in this new category. And what a set it is! As rare as Proof $3’s are in any grade, what about a set that is 95% complete with a weighted GPA of 67.24! Nineteen of the thirty-nine coins sit at the top of the pop charts. With pedigrees that include Garrett, Bass and Trompeter, this set was a welcome addition to the Registry in 2012 and fully deserving of its third Gold Star award.

D. Brent Pogue Collection - Draped Bust $5 Gold Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1795-1807)
One of the most famous names in numismatics today, D. Brent Pogue’s collection of early $5s towers above even such legendary names as Eliasberg and Garrett. His set rating of 63.23 bests Eliasberg by 10 points, and it is highly unlikely we’ll ever again see a set of this quality completed by one individual. Of the fifteen coins in this set, eleven sit at the top of the Pop Charts and half of those are the finest known’s beyond question.

Simpson - Indian Head $5 Gold, Circulation Strikes (1908-1929)
Like Simpson’s other sets, this one is amazing as well. With fully third of the coins absolute finest knowns and a Set Rating of 66.16, it is the current finest by a wide margin. Half the coins in the set though do have some upgrade potential, so we hope that before long, this set will rank as the All Time Finest. It now trails that title by only a miniscule .03 grade point. A well-earned third Gold Star and sixth consecutive win in the category.

AWA Collection - Liberty Head $20 Gold with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1850-1907)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) At almost 98% complete, this phenomenal set has been decades in the making and ranks as the finest ever assembled. In 2009, PCGS had the pleasure of examining and certifying this set, in preparation for inclusion in the PCGS Registry. To say it was one of the highlights of our numismatic careers was an understatement. There are so many "Finest Knowns" and Top Pops in this set that it defies description. Between the 1850-O and the 1855-S, there is a total of THREE coins PCGS has graded higher than the pieces shown in the set. For a real numismatic treat, check out the images that accompany each of the set composition listings. Almost all the coins possess gorgeous original color and surfaces. Its sixth Best Classic award, and more to come.

A & A Saints Collection - St. Gaudens $20 Gold with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1907-1932)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) With Simpson’s Saints having gone Platinum in 2014, A&A’s collection now ranks as the top competitive set in this very popular category. With a rating just over 66, twenty of the 53 coins are at the top of the Pop Charts, and pieces below 65 are few and far between. As we know, a complete set of Saints ain’t easy, with more than a few TOUGH dates near the end of the series. Our congratulations and welcome to the Gold Star club.

Best Modern Sets of 2015

High Desert - Modern Type Set, Circulation Strikes (1950-present)
High Desert has obtained some very difficult coins in almost impossible grades such as a circulation strike 1956 Washington Quarter in MS68 condition. How is it even possible to find a circulation strike coin in such high condition that’s over 50 years old? Very impressive to say the least!

Goldminer's Collection - U.S. Gold Complete Modern Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1980-present)
What a great way to build a set of some very scarce Gold Medals and Commemoratives that honor special events or significant individuals. Most of the coins in Goldminer’s Collection are graded perfect MS70 condition with no room for improvement. Keep up the great work and thank you for sharing such a nice set!

Ikes777 Collection - Silver, Gold & Platinum Eagles Complete Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1986-present)
The ikes777 is a very impressive set to say the least. We are at a loss for words. Many of the coins are difficult to improve but most of them are already in perfect MS70 condition. Look forward to seeing any improvements next year!

The Hot Chick Collection - Collectors Mint Set, Circulation Strikes (1970-2000)
Hot Chick has done a great job in building a nice array of coins representing coins from Special Mint Sets. Many individuals sometimes wonder why they can’t find a 1970-D Kennedy half in circulation. That’s because they were only issued in these Special Mint Sets so finding any example in high grades is almost impossible unless you go through many sets. Congratulations on finding some great coins from very exciting mint sets and displaying them all in this one set.

High Desert - Jefferson Nickels FS with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1938-1964)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) What a beautiful montage of some of the best Jefferson Nickels that exist and they are all in this one set. There are numerous Pop 1 coins with none being finer in the High Desert Collection. Although the set is closed from public view, when this collector decides to open it up, the viewer will be treated with high quality images for every single coin.

The Corso Collection - Jefferson Nickels FS with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1938-present)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The Corso Collection continues to dominate in this category, remaining in the top spot for over a decade! The owner should take pride in orchestrating such a significant set of Jefferson Nickels. Almost every coin has been imaged and displayed very elegantly in his set. Many of the coins are the finest in existence for circulating Jefferson Nickels with Full Steps. We are thrilled to recognize this set for another year.

Steve Strom - Jefferson Nickels FS Complete Variety Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1938-Present)
Steve Strom has meticulously assembled a high grade set with more than 30 different varieties. Some of the varieties have single digit populations with none finer. The owner of the set has showed a lot of dedication, as he has made several of the varieties and upgrades himself. Great job on assembling a really nice set of Jefferson Nickels.

Buddy Byers (The Buckeye Collection) - Jefferson Nickels Basic Set, Proof (1938-1964)
There’s very little room to improve this set. Only the 1949 Type 2 and the 1963 Proof Jefferson Nickels can be upgraded. All other coins are Top Pops for the series. Great job on building an amazing set!

Almighty Dimes - Roosevelt Dimes FB with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1946-Present)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) This is a remarkable set and what a great way to represent the Roosevelt Dime series. This set is comprised of some of the finest examples that exist for Roosevelt Dimes. For example, it has the 1948-S, 1961-D and 1966P in MS68FB condition, all Pop 1 and none finer. Just a breathtaking set!

Enfield Collection - Roosevelt Dimes FB with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1965-Present)
The owner of the Enfield Collection has unquestionably built a very challenging yet rewarding set. There are a number of coins within this set which make it very difficult to collect. Most circulation strike coins are in very high uncirculated grades. For the proofs many of the coins are in perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition. A very remarkable set!

The Halcyon Collection - Roosevelt Dimes Basic Set, Proof (1950-present)
This set burst onto the scene just last month landing easily in the #1 spot. Only 17 coins in the 88-coin set are not Top Pops which says something about the quality of this set. This gives the set a very respectable rating of 71.03 and makes it a tough one to beat.

The Diehl Washington Quarter Collection - Washington Quarters Complete Variety Set with all Die Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Satin Finish (1999-Present)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) Another magnificent set of Washington Quarters! This time it also has Satin Finish Washington Quarters all in very high grades. This is not to mention some very tough Satin Finish varieties like the Pop 1 with none higher 2005-P Satin Finish Quarter DDR FS-801. Keep up the great work!

admiraladm - Washington Quarters Complete Variety Set, Proof (1999-present)
The admiraladm set is very impressive as it has lots of PR70 Deep Cameo coins both in Clad and Silver, making it very challenging. The owner of this set makes it look very easy to build a really nice looking set but we know how much hard work and effort has gone into building this really nice set. Thanks for sharing this set for all of us to see.

Golden Gate Franklins - Franklin Half Dollars FBL Complete Variety Set, Circulation Strikes (1948-1963)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The Franklin Half Dollar series has many varieties that make the set challenging yet really fun to collect. Some varieties are very scarce especially in high grades. This set is 100% complete and some of the varieties are Pop 1 with none being finer. It’s going to be very difficult to improve this set.

Churchill Cameo Franklins - Franklin Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Proof (1950-1963)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Churchill please provide us your contact information so we can provide it to the Franklin Half Dollar Museum, if there is ever one created. Many of the coins in this set are worthy of representing the Proof Franklin Half Dollars series. Great job on building such a spectacular set!

PDShad - Kennedy Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1964-Present)
The PD Shad’s Complete JFK Collection is another set that continues to dominate year after year. Winning a major award since 2006 in the basic circulation strike and proof set, this year his combination major variety set tied the Platinum level Arcadia set at the time of the awards deadline. One look at the combination set and you can see why the judges continue to recognize this collector’s achievement. This is an extremely challenging set yet this collector continues to improve it, increasing his set rating every year. Is there still room for improvement? Yes, but not much!

VDB Coins - Kennedy Half Dollars Complete Variety Set, Circulation Strikes (1964-Present)
The VDBCoins set looks amazing! It has many Top Pop Kennedy Half Dollars in MS and SP condition. Not to mention many varieties in high grades are also included in this set. VDBcoins has managed to aquire every single coin needed in the set making it 100% complete. Congratulations on building such a nice set!

Sonoran Monsoon - Eisenhower Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1971-1978)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Did you know that some Eisenhower Dollars are even scarcer than some Morgan Dollars in high grades? It is very true indeed. Some Eisenhower Dollar don’t even exist in grades higher than MS66. The coins were just struck poorly, mishandled and circulated a lot. The set is 100% complete with a few coins that are very scarce. Congratulations on your second gold award!

Sonoran Monsoon - Susan B. Anthony Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1979-1981, 1999)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Although the Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a short set compared to most other U.S. coin sets, this set cannot be taken lightly. The Sonoran Monsoon Set of Susan B. Anthony Dollars contains several of the finest Susan B. Anthony Dollars from circulation. This includes the first year of issue, the 1979-P in PCGS MS68 Pop 1 with none being finer. Imagine the first year the coins were struck. The public was excited about the new coins with tens of millions of them going into circulation. The finest first year issue in existence now resides in this set. Simply amazing to say the least!

Brandywine Sacagawea Collection - Sacagawea Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (2000-present)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Winning gold for the second year in a row, this set is 100% complete and almost every single coin has an image displayed. The set contains mint state coins, satin finish coins and proof coins. Many of the coins have single digit populations with none being finer.

Sonoran Monsoon - Presidential Dollars with Major Edge Errors, Circulation Strikes and Satin Finish (2007-2016)
The Sonoran Monsoon collection of Presidential Dollars has definitely taken a lot of work and dedication in order to build. It is a very impressive set, with several Pop 1 coins and none higher. Many of the coins have great images including descriptions of their provenance. Keep up the great work. We look forward to looking at your set next year.

Subway Tokens - Modern Commemoratives Complete Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1982-present)
(Note that the award includes the 2 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) Absolutely amazing! Almost a completely perfect set. Subway Tokens, may we suggest you change the name of this set to “The Perfect Set” that is if there is ever a PCGS MS70 1982-D Washington Half Dollar. This is the only coin that doesn’t exist in MS70. This set cannot be improved in any way shape or form. Thanks for sharing such a great set!

Subway Tokens - Baseball Hall of Fame $5 HOFer Signature Set, Circulation Strikes (2014)
A very nice set. Ikes77 posted images of each coin in its PCGS holder which makes adds a uniform appearance. Many of the coins are in Perfect 70 condition having no room for improvement. It is also 100% complete and a very fun set to build. Congratulations on building an award winning set this year!

Best Mint and Proof Sets of 2015

Merion Collection - 1906 Mint Set with Gold
Here is a really nice Mint Set, containing 24 coins, 11 of them gold! Much of the copper, nickel and smaller silver coins is in the 65-66 range, while most of the halves and gold averages MS 63-64. Overall, a great looking set and a welcome addition to the Gold Star club for 2015.

Enfield Collection - 1900-1999 Mint Set
After having won two Blue Star awards in 2013 and 2014 we proudly award a Gold Star for this massive achievement. With 1,229 coins it is one of the largest in the registry, and at 98% complete, represents a supremely dedicated collecting effort. No, all the coins are not MS67 and MS68, but it is the scope and completion of this set that amazes. It proves that the set registry is not just about money and buying the best, but about searching for and virtually completing a set containing nearly all the U.S. coins from the 20th century. Way to go!

ErasmusHall - 1936-Present Mint Set
Now requiring 1,025 coins, completion of this set is a collecting accomplishment few can match. This is not to mention that the set now boasts a set rating of 67.81, an improvement from last year. ErasmusHall has proven to be a dedicated collector with an eye for condition. With many coins imaged, you’ll do yourself a favor by browsing through this amazing collection.

Paul Covey (psc) - 1936-Present Mint Set with Major Varieties
We were speechless when we first saw this set. This has got to be one of the more exciting sets from 1936 to date. The set contains many examples from 1c to $1 representing all circulating denominations. For the set to be 98.6% complete is just amazing!

Bob McCann (cars1234 09 w Varieties Mint Set) -2009-Present Mint Set with Major Varieties
At a first glance a 2009 to date set does not appear to be challenging. However, once you view the set composite and realize how many coins are required to complete the set, you begin to appreciate all the hard work and efforts involved in building this set. Congratulations to Bob McCann for taking a such a huge challenge and having so many high end examples representing coins from 2009 to date.

Monte Weiner (The Sebastian Collection) - 1857 Proof Set
Proof coins really made their debut around this time, so this early set is a real treat to see. With a set rating of 66.47, the quality is certainly there, and we are delighted to welcome this set to the Gold Star winners.

Best Colonials, Private Issues & Territorial Gold and Patterns Sets of 2015

Alamo Collection - Early American Coins and Tokens Basic Design Set (1616-1820)
The Alamo Collection contains high-grade examples of virtually every Colonial type. The weighted GPA of 57.50 means that most of the coins are Mint State, which is quite an accomplishment any time Colonial coins are involved.

Richard Saunders Collection - Pine Tree Silver Basic Set (1667-1682)
Massachusetts silver coins are among the most popular of all U.S. Colonials. This set is complete and includes each of the three denominations, plus both the Large and Small Planchet Shillings.

Fall River Collection - Utah Gold (Mormon 1849-1860)
This small, but important, set contains some of the rarest, most interesting coins in American numismatics. Besides being complete, this set contains nice, high-grade Mormon Gold, including a Finest Known 1850 $5 and the uber-rare Mormon $20. This set is an example of what can be accomplished by a serious specialist.

Sixth Army Collection - Philippines Complete Classic Set, Circulation Strikes (1903-1945)
The coins of the U.S. Philippines enjoy a broad, enthusiastic collector base. The Sixth Army set is one of two complete collections in this category, but this one is slightly better with a weighted GPA of 64.49 (a slight improvement over last year’s score). What makes this set extra special is the large number of Top Pop coins.

Bill Berania (High End Basic Set) - Philippines Complete Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1903-1945)
This is a monster set of 144 coins. This is not only the first and only complete set in its category thus far, it also has an impressive Weighted GPA of 62.95. There are plenty of tough coins in this set, but the 1906-S 1 Peso is a real standout.

Best Low Ball Sets of 2015

Buffalo Hunter - Buffalo Nickels, Low Ball (1913-1938)
Since winning gold in 2013, this herd of well-worn Buffalos has seen some rough road. Who would have thought that Buffalo Hunter could have worsened his herd going from a GPA of 3.719 two years ago to today’s GPA of 3.609! While some of the coins are not PO01, they are still the lowest possible example known. The set now boasts 17 of the single worst graded ever. Congratulations for winning top honors three years in a row, two of which are gold.

The Hollis Collection - Barber Half Dollars, Low Ball (1892-1915)
For the third year in a row, this collector continues to impress us by lowering his GPA once again. Now with a 4.365 GPA, the set boast the single worst 1898-O ever graded, a magnificent FAIR 2. And, there a few more FR2s sprinkled throughout giving this collector some Top Pop bonus points.

Chesapeake Collection - Walking Liberty Half Dollars, Low Ball (1916-1947)
This set first appeared in March, 2014 and has steadily started the trek up the rankings. By the awards deadline, the set was sitting in the number one spot, 100% complete, with a 2.945 GPA, besting the last year’s top set. And, to further add to the achievement, this collector has treated us with a digital album of some of the lowest Walkers ever graded. As he mentions in his set description, PCGS has certified only one PO01 Walker, his 1918-S. Great job!

Sourdough (End of the Trail) - Morgan Dollars Basic Set, Low Ball (1878-1921)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) Morgan dollar low ball collecting is quite challenging and this collector has done a remarkable job of building his low ball collection. Now, for the fourth year in a row, this set wins gold again. Every coin is a Top Pop and 31 are the single lowest graded, giving this unique low ball set a GPA of a mere 1.07. This collector keeps detailed records and tracks the history of every coin in his collection. Check out his set description. It will give you an idea of his dedication to find the best of the worst.

Johnny Goldsmith (Pocket Change) - Morgan Dollar Top 100 Vam Set, Low Ball (1878-1921)
Last year, this set was not complete, missing only the 1878 VAM 8 8/7 Ears and 1888-O VAM 1B Scarface, but this collector had impressed us with his Low Ball VAM set to win gold. Now, the set is complete and has dropped from last year’s GPA of 14.32 to 13.67. It’s very difficult to get Low Ball Morgan dollars graded, but to have them graded with the variety attribution adds another element of complexity.

Best Everyman Sets of 2015

Liberty Headdress - Everyman Indian Cents (1859-1909)
Nice! Nice! Nice! Every coin is an AU58 with a few pluses scattered throughout. Now, with Top Pop bonuses, the set is listed with a 59.00 GPA. This is a very competitive category. With 21 registered sets, this one shines above the rest.

Mi¢hael Hassler, Master Sergeant, USAF, Retired Combat Air Crew Member & Vietnam Veteran - Everyman Lincoln Cents (1909-1958)
Now for the fifth year in a row, this set has been in the number one spot. This is the third gold award as Michael continues to dominate in this category. His complete set has a rating of 58.99 which means that every coin is 58 with a few pluses thrown in for good measure. It’s just about as good as you can get in the Everyman category. Congratulations!

The James J. Gammalo, Sr. Memorial Collection - Everyman Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938)
Winning gold for the second year in a row, there’s something to be said for consistency. This set is a straight AU58 across the board and as the owner says in his set description “finding a well-struck example of some of these coins is a daunting task to say the least.” Dedicated to his grandfather, a buffalo nickel collector, this collector has put together a beautiful Everyman Set worthy of recognition.

Joseph M. Wojteczko (Beancounter I) - Everyman Barber Dimes (1892-1916)
Every year since 2011, this set has won an award, four of them gold. Barber coins are very difficult to find in nice AU condition. It seems like all survivors are in either Good or Mint State condition, with very few in-between. Beancounter has done a great job of building a complete set of AU Barber dimes. Now with a set rating of 57.92, up from last year’s 57.08, his coins are a consistent AU55 or AU58. Please enjoy his digital album!

J. Dennis Kozimer (KozMc Mercs) - Everyman Mercury Dimes (1916-1945)
This collector improved his set from last year by upgrading his 1930-S and 1931-D to AU. Now, the only coin that grades less than AU is his 1916-D. Great work! He won gold last year because he continued to improve his set, remaining in the top spot. The set is now nearly unbeatable.

Doug Veal (The Iowa Collection) - Everyman Barber Quarters (1892-1916)
The time has come to recognize this great set, which last year bested the retired Brier Creek Collection and has remained on top. This collector has treated us with a digital album, which tells the story of a very solid set with great eye appeal. Sitting with a GPA of 55.514, the set contains a number of Top Pops. Enjoy some of the comments other collectors have posted about this set.

Long Beach AU FH Set - Everyman Standing Liberty Quarters (1916-1930)
Winning gold for the fifth year in a row throws this set into the Platinum level. The set continues to dominate, nearly 2 points above the next ranked set. 27 out of 37 coins are Top Pops! It is probably unbeatable. Great job!

Tom Sears MD (Bustnut) - Everyman Capped Bust Half Dollars (1807-1839)
AU58s and AU58+s complete this wonderful set. Starting the set in early 2013, the set has remained on top ever since. One of the comments on the set best describes it. “How in the world did you get eight of the PCGS 58 Plus Bust Half Dollars graded? No way anyone can catch you now. Super job!”

SurfCity - Everyman Barber Half Dollars (1892-1915)
This rad set was started in 2013 and has slowly risen to the top, landing in the number one spot last fall when it passed BarberNut’s award winning set. The competition is close, but SurfCity hangs tough with a 58.83 GPA. Hey, Dude! Great work.

johnk1942 (3) - Everyman Morgan Dollars (1878-1921)
If you figured a set with a GPA of 58.08 would have most coins graded 58, you’d be right. Only John’s 1893-S grades less and not by much. So many of the coins in the set are Top Pops and the set is 4 points above the next ranked active set.

Best African Sets of 2015

Richard K. LeVan (EML Collection) - Congo (The Republic) Gold, Proof (1965)
This set of Congolese gold coins includes all of the low-mintage coins from 1965. Reportedly, 70% of the original mintage was melted down, leaving very few examples for collectors. It’s a tough set with very little room for improvement.

SWvdM - South African George VI Denomination Type Set, Proof (1937-1952)
This is a beautifully matched 1952 Proof Set that includes every denomination in exceptional condition. The lowest grade on any coin is PR66 and eight of the eleven coins are Top Pops.

Tom Mendenhall (Tom's Proof gold Kugerrands) - South African Krugerrand, Proof (1967-Present)
The Kruggerrand was once the most important gold coin in the world. Millions of Mint State examples were sold to bullion buyers, but the smart buyers purchased the much rarer Proof versions. This collection is complete from 1967 to 2002, inclusive, and now includes coins from 2006 and 2007. Think about it—there are 38 ounces of gold in this set!

Best Asian Sets of 2015

Anil Gupta (anilgupta) - India Colonial British Denomination Type Set (1835-1947)
India is an emerging hot market, especially for the British Colonial coins. This set is particularly tough because most of the coins are from the 1800s and they are difficult to locate in top grades. This set has improved to 84% complete and now has a weighted GPA of 63.667.

RW Israel Pruta Set - Israel Pruta Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1949-1957)
This is a great set which gives a good overview of regular issue Israeli coinage. Only three coins are missing, but those that are included are truly exceptional. Many of them are Top Pops and a couple are unique Top Pops. This is the third award for this deserving set.

The Durdik Family Trust - Japanese Gold Denomination Type Set (1870-1932)
Japanese coins are very popular with collectors because of their scarcity and attractive (yet simple) designs. This set is complete with a Weighted GPA of 63.60.

Kaizan 海山 and Raiden 雷電 一 圓 銀貨 Collection - Japanese Mutsuhito 1 Yen, Circulation Strikes (1870-1912)
The Japanese Yen of this era is a large, impressive silver coin that circulated widely and is difficult to locate in top condition. This set is 100% complete and has a weighted GPA of 59.68. This is the second award for this set, rewarding the improvement that occurred over the past year.

Hetman - Kazakhstan Silver 500 Tenge, Proof (2000-present)
This set caught our attention because of its size, the level of completion (100%) and the overall quality. All of these are low mintage coins. All but one of the coins in this set is a Top Pop and the GPA rose from last year to an amazing 71.070. The owner has done a great job of keeping up with new issues.

Hetman - Kyrgyzstan Silver 10 Som, Proof (1995-present)
Kyrgyzstan is one of the several “-stan” countries that broke away from the Soviet Union. In 1995, they began issuing large 10 Som silver coins in Proof condition. In some years, one coin was issued; in others, as many as 10 different coins might have been issued. Over the last year, Hetman finally completed this set and even added the newest issues.

The J & D Fishman Collection - Palestine Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1927-1946)
(Note that the award includes the 7 sub-sets in this collection which are ranked #1.) This set is a real collecting accomplishment. Besides being a large set and totally complete, many of the coins are Top Pops. Three of the coins are unique Top Pops and the set contains the rare 1931 100 Mils. This is the second award for this set and will probably be the first of many.

Prof Dr Selvaraj Y Subramaniam (skandakumera) - British Sarawak Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1863-1941)
We gave this set an award last year even though it wasn’t complete, and we’re happy to report that the owner has since achieved 100% completion. Many of these coins are difficult to locate, especially in nice condition. There are some great coins in this set, including quite a few unique Top Pops.

Best European Sets of 2015

Evergreen - Austrian 25 Euro Silver Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (2003-present)
Euro coins are very popular with collectors, no matter which country issues them. This complete set, all in MS69 or better, is particularly attractive because of the interesting colorations that come out each year.

Typetone - French 50 Centimes, Circulation Strikes (1897-1920)
The 50 Centimes is a small silver coin that received little attention from collectors when it circulated. This collection is relatively easy to assemble, but difficult to find in top condition. Last year, we noted “At 100% complete and with a weighted GPA of 63.894, this set is going to be hard to improve and nearly impossible to beat.” Amazingly, the owner raised the weighted GPA to 64.53.

Caranett - French 20 Francs Gold Angel, Circulation Strikes (1871-1898)
A wonderful set of 20 Francs from the last part of the 19th century. Many of these coins are difficult to locate in any grade, so achieving 100% completion is difficult and doing so with an overall GPA of 65.58 is an even greater feat. Congratulations!

Virginia Transplant (thush) - French Indo-China Colony Cent, Circulation Strikes (1885-1943)
This is a most impressive set that is not only large, but difficult to complete. Over the last year, the owner has achieved 100% completion and raised the weighted GPA to 62.63. This set is full of Top Pops and a fair number of unique Top Pops.

Larry Gray - German States 3 Mark Type Set, Circulation Strikes (1908-1918)
Mr. Gray’s is the only complete set in this category, with no one else coming anywhere close. He has been working on this set for years and continues to upgrade whenever possible. Check out his great TrueView™ images.

The Sheffield Collection XIV - German 1/2 Mark Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1905-1919)
Sheffield has done a great job over the past couple of years in building this set of German Half Marks. Sheffield’s underlying date set is 100% complete, but this set includes all of the dates and mints issued by Germany from 1905 to 1919. This set is now 93.67% complete with a weighted GPA of 65.38. We know the owner of this set and, as predicted, this set has gotten bigger and better every year.

Talmar12 - German Third Reich 2 Reichsmark Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1933-1939)
Talmar is the first person to complete this set which includes all of the different date and mintmark combinations of the 2 Marks of the Nazi era. Martin Luther, Friedrich Schiller, the Potsdam Garrison Church, and Paul von Hindenburg all make appearance on these coins.

jhd2000 - German 5 Mark Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1951-1974)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) After World War II, Germans focused on getting their lives back together and rebuilding their country. As a result, they spent little time on coin collecting, especially on the common coins they used every day. As a result, it is very difficult to locate high-grade examples of these 5 Marks prior to 1965. This set is 100% complete. Over the past year, the owner has improved the weighted GPA by an amazing 3.8 points.

CB Gold Collection - British George V Sovereign Complete Mintmark Set, Circulation Strikes (1911-1932)
Wow! This set contains all of the gold Sovereigns issued during the reign of George V, not just from Great Britain, but from Canada…and Australia…and South Africa. The first thing that pops into our mind is the intrinsic value of the gold in 83 different Sovereigns. 95.18% complete; weighted GPA of 63.94.

The Threadgold Collection - British Elizabeth II Sovereign Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1957-present)
This is a fairly large set that requires constant attention because of the new issue that comes out each year. This set is 100% complete, with a GPA of 65.34 (another slight improvement over last year’s GPA). Some of the coins are unique, Top Pops!

eyes4coins - Greece 50 Lepta Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1868-1973)
A nicely built set of Greek 50 Leptas, complete for the more than a century in which they were issued. A few of the coins are Top Pops and others are waiting to be improved.

Gene Maguire (Gene1865) - Irish 1/2 Crown Date Set with Mule, Circulation Strikes (1928-1967)
(Note that the award includes the 1 sub-set in this collection which is ranked #1.) The luck of the Irish is evident in this 100% complete collection. These were the largest denomination issued by Ireland and each coin sports a horse and a harp (for those of you who are topical collectors). This year, the weighted GPA remains at 58.61.

Caranett - Italy 20 Lire, Circulation Strikes (1880-1897)
Caranett has award winning sets in other World gold categories, so a great set like this is not unexpected. As with Caranett's French 20 Francs set, this one is hard to complete and difficult to find in top grades. This set won gold in the previous four years and, this year, it’s even better (the weighted GPA rose slightly to 65.42).

rosswb - Russian Nicholas I Roubles, Circulation Strikes (1826-1858)
This is an incredibly difficult set to collect. Completing it is nearly impossible (rosswb is at 56.36%) and finding these coins in high grade only adds to the difficulty (this set has a weighted GPA of 48.16). We’ll be keeping an eye on this set to see what improvements are made in the coming year. Keep up the good work.

Caranett - Sweden 20 Kronor, Circulation Strikes (1873-1925)
Caranett is the king of world gold coins. This set is only two coins shy of completion and every coin is a Top Pop. The weighted GPA rose to 67.23 over the past year, indicating the superb quality of these eighteenth and nineteenth century coins.

The Sheffield Collection XIX - Swiss 1/2 Silver Franc, Circulation Strikes (1850-1967)
This is a remarkable, 100% complete collection in super-high grade. Many of the coins are Top Pops and quite a few are unique for their grade. As predicted, the GPA of this set rose over the past year, from 65.42 to 66.1. The best just keeps getting better.

The Sheffield Collection XX - Swiss 1 Silver Franc, Circulation Strikes (1850-1967)
This is a large, comprehensive set of Swiss 1 Francs, each coin the size of a US Quarter Dollar and often equated with the US Barber Quarter series. The owner has done a great job of filling in most of the holes with high-grade examples. As with Sheffield’s ½ Franc set, we expect this set to get better every year. Over the last year, the set remained at 94.92% completion, but the weighted GPA rose slightly to 65.97.

WJG Swiss Shooting Talers - Swiss Shooting Festival Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1842-1939)
An outstanding set of Swiss "Shooters." Last year, this set was one coin shy of 100% completion; this year, the set is now 100% complete. Not only that, the weighted GPA rose slightly to 65.10. This is a remarkably high level considering that most of the coins are from the 1800s! If you're not familiar with these coins, check them out. They are good-sized coins that all have interesting designs.

Tryzub - Ukraine Commemoratives 2 Hryvni, Circulation Strikes (1996-Present)
This BIG set contains 168 coins and it gets bigger each year as new coins are issued (how about ten new ones in 2013 alone). Virtually every coin is a unique Top Pop!

Tryzub - Ukraine Commemoratives Silver 5 Hryven, Proof (2004-Present)
While not as big as the 2 Hryvni set, the results are equally impressive. 100% complete, with every coin a Top Pop, and most of them are unique.

Best North American Sets of 2015

Spencer Collection - Bermuda Hogge Set, Proof (1989-1990)
This modern set consists of eight gold coins, each with a mintage of only 500 pieces. This set caught our eye again because the designs on the coin incorporate the rare Somers Island "Hogge" Money from Colonial times. 100% complete, now with an improved weighted GPA of 70.44.

Lantern Collection - Canadian Complete Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1858-2012)
Few people attempt this collection because of its sheer size (144 coins), but the owner of this set has obtained every one of the requisite coins. Not only that, the weighted GPA is an amazing 67.69.

Perth Collection - Newfoundland Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1865-1947)
This is another of those mega-sets which, in this case, requires 139 coins to be complete, including every date in every denomination from the Cent to the $2 gold piece. This is the first award for this collection, which is now #1 in the category. Weighted GPA = 65.87.

Lantern Collection - Canadian Coins Complete Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1858-1952)
Who starts a set that requires 384 coins? A dedicated collector, that’s who. This set is just one or two monster coins from completion and ranks in first place with a weighted GPA of 63.11. We notice some recent updating, so we suspect this set will be even better next year.

Virginia Transplant - Cuban Complete Copper-Nickel & Silver Set with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1915-1961)
This is the sixth consecutive award for this exceptional set. With the recent normalization of diplomatic ties between the US and Cuba, this set will only grow in popularity. This set is both complete and in high grade (63.98 weighted GPA).

Virginia Transplant - Cuban Complete First Republic Set with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1915-1961)
This is an impressive, mid-sized set that reached 100% completion last year. There has been some upgrading, too, as the weighted GPA is now 64.18. This set is loaded with Top Pops, many of which are unique for their grade.

Fernando Baez Guerrero - Dominican Republic Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1937-Present)
This is a great yeoman effort at attempting this oversized set that covers the complete Dominican Republic coinage in all dates and denominations from 1937 to date. Many of the coins in this set are unique Top Pops. This year the completion is at 98.46%.

FABG - Dominican Republic Complete Set, Proof (1937-2003)
Loaded with unique Top Pops, this set reflects the same attention to detail that FABG lavishes on all his/her sets. There are many low mintage coins in this set, including a couple with mintages of only 35 Proofs.

Fernando Baez Guerrero - Haitian Silver 10 Gourdes, Proof (1967-1971)
This is a relatively short set, but it is 100% complete and has an improved GPA of 67.94. Every coin is a Top Pop, many of which are unique for the grade. We’re not sure of the connection, but Haiti was fascinated by American Indian leaders on their 1971 coins.

JD Foster Collection - Mexican Silver Cap and Ray Peso Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1918-1945)
JD has done a fabulous job of assembling a top-notch collection of these standard silver Pesos. Considering that these were all made for circulation and not with any particular attention to quality, the 67.15 GPA of this set is simply amazing. According to the owner, this set was built over a 45 year period.

RFS Industries - Mexican Ferdinand VII (Draped Bust) 8 Reales, Circulation Strikes (1811-1821)
This classic, Mexican set includes 8 Reales issued under the reign of Ferdinand VII. Amazingly, this set is 100% complete and the lowest grade is XF40 (the 1914/3 overdate, of course). What a great set.

Gabriel Bellman (76 Blazer Rip City Libertads!) - Mexican 1/4 Onza Silver, Proof (1992-present)
Each year, this set gets bigger as a new coin is added. That has not stopped this stalwart collector, who retains the coveted number one standing and 100% completion. Approximately half of this collection is a unique Top Pop.

Antonio Dominguez (romanose05) - 1904 Panamanian Proof Set
A fantastically rare set of only four coins, each with a mintage of a mere 12 coins. According to the owner, this is the only complete set graded by PCGS.

Antonio Dominguez (romanose05) - 1962 Panamanian Proof Set
It is hard to believe that, in 1962, a modern Proof set with a mintage of only 25 could exist, yet here it is. This set is unimprovable. Every coin is a unique Top Pop!

Best Oceanic of 2015

Timbertop - Australian Dollars with Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1984-present)
This is a great, mid-sized, modern set of Australian $1 coins. Last year, this set was incomplete, now it is 100% complete. It contains numerous Top Pop coins, including several unique Top Pops.

emu666 - Australian Fifty Cents Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1966-Present)
This set is not only 100% complete, it has taken over the top spot with a weighted GPA of 68.42, a fraction of a point over the previous, award-winning set. Next year, we’ll see how this battle plays out.

George G. Fenton (ggfenton) - Australian Pennies Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1911-1964)
This is a big set that is very challenging because of the rarity of the earlier dates in top condition. There are a few coins that can be improved in this set, but the large number of Top Pops indicate the owner’s determination to build a world-class set.

George G. Fenton (ggfenton) - Australian 1/2 Pennies Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1911-1964)
The owner of this set wins the weighted GPA contest, but still needs a single coin to achieve 100% completion. Congratulations on a job well done.

Cannonball! - Fiji Pennies, Circulation Strikes (1934-1968)
Of the three collectors who have registered this set, Cannonball has the best. 25 coins, 100% complete, and a weighted GPA of 66.16. Lots of Top Pops and “unique for the grade” coins here.

Aurum - New Zealand Threepence Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1933-1965)
This year, Aurum edged out the previous year’s winner with a barely-better weighted GPA of 65.51. Look for an interesting battle to develop this year between these two complete set owners.

George G. Fenton (kiwiusa) - New Zealand Shilling Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1933-1965)
A nice, fitting match to this owner’s Threepence set. This set is a little bit tougher to find in top condition, but there are loads of Top Pops here, as well, and several are unique Top Pops.

Best Multi-Country of 2015

CB Gold Collection - British Commonwealth Sovereigns Complete Set George V, Circulation Strikes (1910-1936)
This is an amazing set of the gold Sovereigns issued by and for various countries during the reign of British King George V. A commenter on this set summed it up: “awesome set, I hope you complete the set one day, as it is a task that has probably never been achieved.” This set has jumped from 92.77% to 95.18% completion and the weighted GPA has eked higher from 63.55 to 63.99.

CB Gold Collection - British Commonwealth Sovereigns Complete Set Victoria (Jubilee Head ), Circulation Strikes (1887-1893)
The Jubilee Head is a specific design type seen late in Queen Victoria’s reign. The Jubilee head appears on British and Australian gold Sovereigns from 1887 to 1893. This 20-coin set is 100% complete and beats out the former #1 set (now retired) by an impressive, full point plus nearly a half.

Best New Sets of 2015

Simpson - Barber Series Complete Set, Proof (1892-1915)
Simpson’s complete set of Proof Barber coinage has vaulted to the top of this category in his debut year. No surprise, as his set rating is an unearthly 69.04. Over thirty pieces are un-improvable, and nearly all grade PR67 or higher. Spectacular original toning abounds, and we again urge you to check out the photos on the registry website.

Jim McGuigan - Half Cents Die Variety Set by Cohen, Circulation Strikes (1793-1857)
We welcome longtime Half Cent collector Jim McGuigan to the Gold Star club with his outstanding set of Half Cents by Cohen number. With a daunting 99 coins in the set, Jim has managed to complete 98% of the set in a grade of 53 or better. Just his 1793s include a 64, a two 65’s and a 66! Both of his 1796s are mint state. There are some tough varieties here, including the 1797 Gripped Edge and the 1802, Rev. 1800. In all we congratulate Jim on an outstanding achievement.

The Foreside Collection - Flying Eagle Cents with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1856-1858)
This may be a small set (only 5 mint state and 4 proof coins), but it is glorious none-the-less. With a weighted GPA of 66.05 it is a full 1.5 points above the number two set. This collector has an eye for quality, in fact his 1857 MS66 and 1858 Large Letters MS67 are Top Pops and his 1858 Large Letters PR66+CA is the single finest graded. New to the Set Registry, we congratulate this collector on this first award-winning effort.

Simpson - Liberty Seated Quarters, Proof (1858-1891)
Simpson’s sets never fail to amaze, and this Proof Set of Liberty Seated Quarters underscore that point. The Set rating is a mere 68.424(!) and of the 35 coins, just over half sit at the top of the Population charts. Simply astonishing quality that will be nearly impossible to beat.

Perfection 6A - Barber Quarters Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1916)
Perfection’s Barber Quarter set lacks only 1 coin, the 1894-S. But the rest? Well, what can we say? The weighted GPA is 67.257 with half the coins at the top of the Pop chart. This set currently dominates the category by 3 full points, and is a very welcome addition to the Set Registry. Thanks!

Simpson - Barber Quarters, Proof (1892-1915)
Like his Proof Seated Quarters, Simpson’s Barber Quarters simply amaze. Here now is a set with a rating of an unimaginable 70.019, with 2/3 of the set at the top of the Pop charts. Simpson generously shares his sets with superb quality photos, so take a moment to see that has been accomplished.

Phillips Collection - Washington Quarters Complete Variety Set, Proof (1936-Present)
For being a fairly new set, you have done a very impressive job to say the least. Even early Proof Washington Quarters in high grade are in this set. Then to make things a little more exciting there are many perfect Proof 70 Deep Cameo Quarters from 1974 to date. Congratulations on winning an award this year!

A Sourdough's Cache - Franklin Half Dollars FBL Basic Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1948-1963)
What a beautiful and colorful set! Many Franklin Half Dollars in this set are wonderfully toned and in very high Mint State grades. For the proof issues many of them are in really nice Deep Cameo contrast. Keep up the great work and we look forward to seeing how you improve this set over the next year.

Simpson - Morgan Dollars Basic Set, Proof (1878-1904)
For many collectors a gem Proof Morgan Dollar would be the highlight of their collection. Simpson has assembled simply the finest set of Proof Morgans ever! With a rating of 69.18, it boasts a dozen at the top of the Pop charts, and five PR-69s. Nearly all are Cameo or Deep Cameos. We are more than impressed at this achievement!

Simpson - $4 Gold, Proof (1879-1880)
One Stella is pretty amazing. All four, in an average of 67.35 is, well, we’re speechless. Simpson has managed to put together the finest set of Stellas ever assembled, and for that, we can only give him a Gold Star and tip our hats for an incredible achievement.

D. Brent Pogue Collection - Early $10 Gold Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1795-1804)
When you go up against Louis Eliasberg, Harry Bass, and the Smithsonian National Collection, and win, there isn’t much more we can add. D. Brent Pogue has certainly established himself as one of the top numismatists of ALL TIME, and his collection of early Eagles certainly explains why. All are Mint State, and of the ten coins in the set, half are un-improvable. Our profound congratulations on a superb set.

Moon' High - Gold & Platinum Eagle Complete Set, Proof (1986-present)
The Moon’ High Set is absolutely perfect! No room for improvement whatsoever. The set also has many notes on where most coins were acquired. This gives viewers a better understanding on how much work and effort is involved in adding every single coin to this set. Congratulations on building the perfect set!

Sixth Army Collection - Philippines Twenty Centavos, Circulation Strikes (1903-1945)
This is the Current Finest set of the category and the best of only two complete sets. Not a bad start for this new set.

Perth Collection - Newfoundland Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1865-1947)
The Perth Collection rolled into this category to grab top honors with 100%completion and a Weighted GPA of 65.87. This is quite an accomplishment since 139 coins are needed for this mega-collection.

The Winton Collection - Australian Complete Proof Set (1955-1963)
The Winton Collection is a new set that took top honors in this category with an impressive Weighted GPA of 67.23. There is a lot of competition in this set, so jumping to the front of the line as a new set is quite an accomplishment.

Best Digital Albums of 2015

Link's - Capped Bust Quarters with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1815-1838)
Collectors cast their votes and selected two wonderful digital albums to win gold this year. The first is part of Link’s Bust Quarter collection. Every coin in the album has beautiful color and you can see by the quality of the coins why this collection is listed in the PCGS Set Registry Hall of Fame. We thank this collector for sharing his wonderful set.

Dr. and Mrs. Peter K. Shireman Collection - Barber Half Dollars with Major Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1892-1915)
Collectors also selected the Shireman digital album to win gold. Browsing through this album and you quickly see why. The coins display incredible luster and color. It is simply a treat to turn the pages and admire this numismatic achievement.

Best of the Registry Winners of 2015

Collectors with the finest current set in each category with at a least 95% completion and in large set compositions those with 500 or more coins registered in one set, will receive a "Best of the Registry" icon by their set listings in the registry. Click here to view a list of those sets which were #1 and at least 95% complete on 6/30/15 5pm EST (2pm PST).

Ten Year Anniversary Recipients

To celebrate collectors who have won awards for being number one in their category for at least ten years in a row, we recognize their sets with the 10 Year Anniversary icon. To these collectors, you have our thanks for your loyalty and friendship. We appreciate all you do for the PCGS Set Registry. To view a list of these award winning sets, please click here.