Some of the most well known low mintage modern commemorative coins include the uncirculated version of the 1997 Jackie Robinson $5 Gold Coin, numerous issues from the 1995-1996 Olympic commemorative program, and the uncirculated version of the 2000-W Library of Congress $10 Gold and Platinum Coin. Gold and silver coins have become more expensive, prompting some collectors to cut back on their purchases. Finally, in recent years, the price of precious metals seems to have had an impact. Different packaging options can have an impact, as coins included in multi-coin sets or special collectible products can experience higher sales than coins only offered individually. In almost all cases, the total sales for proofs is higher than for uncirculated coins. Collector preference for proof versions compared to uncirculated versions also plays a factor. During and immediately following periods with a large number of different commemorative coins issued, the number coins sold for each program has suffered. The number of other numismatic products offered concurrently has also played a factor. Over the years, some programs have carried themes or designs that did not experience a high degree of popularity with buyers, resulting in lower sales. In general, coins with the lowest mintages are the most valuable for their respective denominations.Ĭommemorative coins have experienced low mintage levels for a variety of factors. The number of coins issued under each program is also subject to a certain maximum mintage indicated in the authorizing legislation. The mintages for modern commemorative coins issued by the United States Mint are dependent upon the total number of coins sold to collectors during the specified offering period.