PCGS SET REGISTRY^SM AWARDS 2007

Expert Comments:
This year’s PCGS Set Registry awards competition definitely reached new heights of numismatic achievement! In short, we were totally blown away by the number and quality of the sets now registered in the PCGS Set Registry. We understand what it takes to build a great set, and so many of you have done exactly that. It was truly a pleasure to comb thru all the sets and look at what amazing individual coins were in many of the sets. In fact, there were so many great sets that we couldn’t just pick 20 classic sets and 20 modern sets, so we expanded the number of sets we wanted to recognize to 30 in each category!

We congratulate all of this year’s winners. You have our numismatic respect and admiration. And those who came close also have our respect. There are some great sets that aren’t on the list of this year’s winners. We are glad we can help (at least in a small way) all of you experience the joys of coin collecting and set building. It’s fun for us, too!

Ron Guth, David Hall, and John Dannreuther
This year’s Set Registry judges

Thirty Best Classic Sets (1792 to 1964) of 2007

ESM - U.S. Cents Complete Set (1793-present) 
U.S. Cents Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1793-present)
U.S. Cents Complete Set, Proof (1817-present)
U.S. Cents Complete Set (1793-present)
ESM took on the daunting task of attacking this 529-coin set in 2006 and immediately rose to top ranking.  While the set is only 92.63% complete, it remains head-and-shoulders above any of the competitors.  Included are many condition rarities, some great pedigrees (Eliasberg for one), and an obvious attention to details.  This set also includes all dates and major varieties of Half Cents, making ESM’s accomplishments all the more important.

High Desert - Complete U.S. Type Set (1792-1964)
The High Desert collection continues its dominance of the type set category and receives its sixth consecutive Best Classic Set award. This is an amazing set of U.S. coin types, 100% complete and loaded with superb quality coins. Over the last year, High Desert has raised the weighted GPA to 63.96, up from last year’s weighted GPA of 63.81. While this does not sound like much of an increase, keep in mind the difficulty of improving a set of this quality.  

Jim McGuigan - Half Cent Collection (1793-1857) 
Half Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1793-1857) 
Half Cents with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1793-1857)
Half Cents Basic Set, Proof (1831-1857)
Half Cents with Varieties, Proof (1831-1857)
Jim McGuigan continues to lead a small pack of dedicated collectors in the area of Half Cents, having built one of the finest collections of all time. Jim has always been an aggressive buyer of top-quality Half Cents and his presence as a dealer at most major coin shows gives him a leg up on the competition. Jim's collection has won multiple awards, including a well-deserved Hall of Fame recognition in 2004.

ESM - Half Cents, Proof (1831-1857) 
Half Cents Basic Set, Proof (1831-1857)
Half Cents with Varieties, Proof (1831-1857)
In 2006, the ESM Collection won its first PCGS Registry award for a collection of Proof Half Cents. That set, which was 96% complete at the time, is now 100% complete.  Many of the coins in this collection are not only Top Pop for the date, but unique for the grade.  Desirable pedigrees include those of Norweb, Eliasberg, and Pittman.

Stewart Blay - Indian Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1859-1909)
Stewart Blay is well-known in the collecting community as a connoisseur of high-quality copper coins and his dogged pursuit of Top Pop coins.  While Stewart is best known for his remarkable collection of Lincoln Cents, this year he jumps to the top of the Indian Cent category with an equally notable set of circulation strikes.  What Stewart has accomplished as a collector is simply incredible.

Kert Phillips - Indian Cents Basic Set, Proof (1859-1909)
This is the fourth annual award for this remarkable set of mostly Red and Cameo Proof Indian Cents.  The weighted GPA for this set is an amazing 68.18 out of a possible 68.95.  As advanced as he is, Kert continues to upgrade and improve the coins whenever possible.  That takes passion, dedication, and lots of discretionary funds.

Stewart Blay - Lincoln Cent Collection (1909-1958)
Lincoln Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1909-1958)
Lincoln Cents with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1909-1958)
Lincoln Cents, Matte Proof (1909-1916)
Lincoln Cents, Proof (1936-1942)
Lincoln Cents, Proof (1950-1958)
Lincoln Cents, Proof (1909-1958)
For the sixth year running, Stewart has maintained the top position in one of the most hotly contested categories with a Hall of Fame collection that is simply outstanding in quality, rarity, and color.  Stewart was an early participant in the PCGS Set Registry program and embodies the competitive drive and passion of a true collector.  However, Stewart is not resting on his laurels and he continues to upgrade and improve his set whenever possible.

JHTwist Collection - Shield Two Cents with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1864-1872)
JHTwist has done a fine job of building the finest set (with varieties) of the Two Cents series.  100% complete and over 81% Red, this set includes an MS-64 Red Small Motto, three Top Pop coins, and only three coins less than MS-65.  Unlike in many categories, where the leaders are separated by fractions of points, no one comes close to the killer combination of quality and completeness found in the JHTwist collection.

The Law Collection - Three Cent Nickels, Circulation Strikes (1865-1889)
This is the second annual award for the Law collection of Three-Cents (Nickel) but, in reality, this is a Hall of Fame and All-Time Finest set that has led the category since 2002, having once been the property of former leader, Bruce Scher.  This set is one coin and one-tenth of a point from perfection (anyone have the 1884 in MS-67?).  Many of the coins in this collection are unique for the grade, as well.  Remember, these are Mint State examples of each date, which are much harder to find in high grade than the Proof versions.

Mitch Green - Shield Nickels with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1866-1883)
What a monster of a set!  Mitch needs only two upgrades to achieve complete perfection in this category and he deserves kudos for assembling the All-Time Finest set of Shield Nickels with varieties.  Our data indicates an upgrade as late as June 29, 2007, so we know that Mitch continues to collect and improve.  The "Pop Higher" column for this set is almost completely filled with zeroes - a collector's dream.

Gerald Forsythe - Buffalo Nickel Collection (1913-1938)
Buffalo Nickels Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1913-1938)
Buffalo Nickels Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1913-1938)
Buffalo Nickels, Proof (1913-1937)
Buffalo Nickels Short Set, Circulation Strikes (1934-1938)
Gerald Forsythe worked his way into first position in the Buffalo Nickel categories in 2005 and remains there today.  He generously agreed to display his collection at the PCGS table during the ANA summer convention for everyone to see.  This was an opportunity to view some of the finest, most breathtaking Buffalo Nickels in existence.

The Law Collection - Bust Half Dimes, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837)
Bust Half Dimes Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837)
Bust Half Dimes with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837)
This is a tiny set (nine dates) with some absolute monsters.  How about four MS-68 Half Dimes from the 1830's, plus four MS-67's.  How about five coins that are unique Top Pop coins.  We like the owner's philosophy in the comments for this set: "And like the other Law sets, this set will be complete only when PCGS stops grading and all of the finest coins are included in the Law Collections!"

Gerry Fortin - Liberty Seated Dimes, Circulation Strikes (1837-1891)
Liberty Seated Dimes Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1837-1891)
Liberty Seated Dimes Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1837-1891)
Liberty Seated Dimes with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1837-1891)
Liberty Seated Dimes with Varieties and 1873-CC No Arrows, Circulation Strikes (1837-1891)
Gerry Fortin is not only a consummate collector who has succeeded in his ambitious goal of putting together the finest collection of Liberty Seated Dimes, but he has a passion for sharing his knowledge of this series.  If you get a chance, visit his set on-line and see what he has done with images and useful information. 

The Law Collection - Barber Dime Collection (1892-1916)
Barber Dimes Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1916)
Barber Dimes Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1916)
Barber Dimes with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1892-1916)
Barber Dimes, Proof (1892-1915)
This is the third annual award for the Law Collection of Barber Dimes, in recognition of the superb quality of the collection and its ranking as the All-Time Finest set ever assembled.  Almost 80% of the collection is Top Pop and many of the coins are unique for the grade.  The owner describes the 1911 in MS-68 as the finest Mint State Barber Dime in existence.

Joshua II Collection - Mercury Dimes FB, Circulation Strikes (1916-1945)
Mercury Dimes FB Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1916-1945)
Mercury Dimes FB Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1916-1945)
Mercury Dimes FB with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1916-1945)
This monster set of Mercury Dimes has won top honors in its category every year since 2002 and is a Hall of Fame and All-Time Finest Set.  The opportunities to improve this set are few and far between, but in January 2007 the owner raised the Weighted GPA of this set up to 69.09 out of a possible 69.18 points - an amazing achievement in a hotly contested category.

Just Having Fun - Standing Liberty Quarters FH, Circulation Strikes (1916-1930)
Standing Liberty FH Quarters Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1916-1930)
Standing Liberty FH Quarters with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1916-1930)
For five years running, the Just Having Fun collection of Standing Liberty Quarters has been atop the leader board.  This set is so advanced that no upgrades have been made to the "With Varieties" set since 2005, but that's okay since none of the competition has been able to either.  This is an All-Time Finest, Hall of Fame set.

David Poole - Washington Quarters Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1932-1964)
This is an incredible collection of Washington Quarters, assembled from various sources, with a lot of help from a former category leader.  Mr. Poole has done a wonderful job of presenting his set, with full color images and pedigrees for each coin.  David credits his success to the knowledge and generosity of other collectors he has met.

Dr. and Mrs. Steven L. Duckor - Barber Half Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1892-1915)
Barber Half Dollars Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1915)
Barber Half Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1915)
Barber Half Dollars with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1892-1915)
This monster set of Barber Half Dollars has been a consistent award winner since 2002 and is also a Hall of Fame collection.  PCGS had the pleasure of displaying the Duckors' stunning set of Half Dollars at the February 2005 Long Beach convention, alongside Dale Friend's and Dr. Peter Shireman's collections (currently, second and third finest, respectively).

The Cajun Collection - Walking Liberty Half Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1916-1947)
Walking Liberty Half Dollars Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1916-1947)
Walking Liberty Half Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1916-1947)
This is the fifth consecutive win for this impressive collection.  The owner presents a nice array of full color images on the PCGS Set Registry website, so if you want to see some great images of incredible Mint State Walkers, pay a visit.  With a few upgrades, this set could easily become the All-Time Finest.  The recent entry of the almost-as-nice Gerald Forsythe collection may provide the necessary motivation.  Ahh.competition!

Robert D. Hesselgesser M.D. - Early Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Early Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Early Dollars with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Early Dollars with Bolender & Bowers/Borckardt Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Dr. Hesselgesser, a well-known collector in other areas, recently focused his attention on early Silver Dollars.  In particular, he has embraced the collecting of die varieties in a very big way.  His collection was one of the first to be certified under the expanded PCGS Variety Service and was a featured display at a recent Long Beach show, where it attracted many collectors who were blown away with the quality of the coins.

The Legend Collection - Liberty Seated Dollars, 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.  In other categories, the top set may lead the second place set by a fraction of a point.  In this case, the Legend Collection beats the next best set by over 10 points!

The Legend Collection - Trade Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1873-1878)
This is a breathtaking set of Trade Dollars, virtually all of which are unique Top Pop coins.  Only one coin, the 1878-S, needs to be improved and its already an MS-67!  We predict this set will never be beaten and will go down in history as the finest set ever assembled.  It is already a Hall of Fame, All-Time Finest set and the recipient of six consecutive annual awards.

California I - Morgan Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
Morgan Dollars Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
Morgan Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
Morgan Dollars with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
This amazing set of Morgan Silver Dollars wins its sixth consecutive award this year.  In April 2007, the Weighted GPA rose to 66.17, moving it closer to the coveted goal of All-Time Finest set.  Morgan Dollars are among the most popular coins in the PCGS Set Registry, resulting in fierce competition at all levels.  To remain at the top level for six straight years is incredible.

David T. Miller and C. Ash Harrison (DT Miller by Ashmore) - Morgan Dollars Prooflike, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
Morgan Dollars Prooflike Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
Morgan Dollars Prooflike with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1878-1921)
DT Miller, with help from Ash Harrison, has built an exceptional collection of Morgan Dollars that contains not only Prooflike examples, but loads of Deep Mirror Prooflikes, as well.  Most of the coins have been imaged using the PCGS True-View service and it is quite instructive to "stroll" through them online.

California I - Peace Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1921-1935)
Peace Dollars Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1921-1935)
Peace Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1921-1935)
As with the California I Morgan Dollar set, this group is listed privately.  To give you a hint as to the exceptional quality of this set, we point out that only three coins need to be upgraded to make every coin a Top Pop!  This six-time award winner and Hall of Fame has a GPA of 66.24, just shy of the perfect score of 66.30!
 
AFA71 - Peace Dollars Top 50 VAM Variety Set, Circulation Strikes (1921-1935)
Serious VAM variety collectors will love this remarkable set for its quality.  Part of the attraction of VAM collecting is the whimsical nomenclature: Broken Wing, Doubled Motto, Whisker Jaw, Chin Bar, etc.  This collector has the most popular 50 varieties in exceptionally high grade.

Donald Kutz (The California Collection) - Indian Head $2-1/2 Gold, Circulation Strikes (1908-1929)
This is the third consecutive win for this 100% complete collection of Indian Head Quarter Eagles.  Each and every coin is an MS-65 or an MS-66, with many being unimprovable.  The 1911-D is an amazing MS-66 (Top Pop) and the weighted GPA is a whopping 65.57.

The Great Lakes Collection - $3 Gold No 1870-S, Circulation Strikes (1854-1889)
One can measure the greatness of a set by comparing it to another one of great fame and renown.  Everyone knows of the phenomenal set assembled by Harry Bass.  The Great Lakes collection beat the Bass collection by over two full points, which is very difficult to do at the top end of the condition scale.  This award-winning set is full of Top Pop coins or coins that are unique for the grade.

WPE Collection - Silver Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1892-1954)
Silver Commemoratives 50 Piece Type Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1954)
Silver Commemoratives 144 Piece Mintmark & Variety Set, Circulation Strikes (1892-1954)
WPE is a new leader in this category, just edging out the award-winning Cali Collection set.  There are some remarkably beautiful coins in this set, some of which are illustrated on the PCGS Set Registry (the MS-67 Lafayette Dollar is a standout).  WPE is now third on the All-Time Finest set list.
 

Thirty Best Modern Sets of 2007

Franco Soro (The Discovery Collection) - Silver, Gold & Platinum Eagles Complete Set (1986-present)
Silver, Gold & Platinum Eagle Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1986-present)
Silver, Gold & Platinum Eagles Complete Set, Proof (1986-present)
Silver, Gold & Platinum Eagles Complete Set (1986-present)
The Discovery Collection contains each and every mintmark of all denominations in the Gold American Eagle series.  This is the second win for the Discovery Collection as it solidifies its position at the top of the category.

Dan Close (Close to Perfect)- Lincoln Cents Complete Set (1909-present)
Lincoln Cents Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1909-Present)
Lincoln Cents Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1909-Present)
Lincoln Cents with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1909-Present)
Lincoln Cents Complete Set (1909-present)
Close to Perfect lives up to his name with a collection of Lincoln Cents that is second to none in the Date Set and With Varieties categories.  This is a huge set, consisting or 260 coins, making it difficult to complete the set in the first place and difficult to compete in this hotly contested category.  With the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln Cent coming up soon, we expect to see even more interest in this series.

Cameron Stanley - Lincoln Cents, Proof (1959-Present)
Lincoln Cents Basic Set, Proof (1959-Present)
Lincoln Cents with Varieties, Proof (1959-Present)
Cameron Stanley has built a wonderful set of Proof Lincoln Memorial Cents, fully complete and almost all of which are Deep Cameos (only two of the coins are Cameos).  By itself, this is a remarkable accomplishment, but Cameron is a Young Numismatist who really appreciates these special coins.

Ray Overby - Jefferson Nickels FS, Circulation Strikes (1965-present)
Ray Overby has led this category since its inception.  Here are the statistics: 100% complete, over 85% Full Steps, and three-tenths of a point from perfection (68.66 vs. 68.96 Weighted GPA).  Hot on his heels are the Just Having Fun and Corso collections, both of which are award-winning sets this year.  Can Ray continue his dominance?

Just Having Fun - Jefferson Nickels FS Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1938-present)
Jefferson Nickels FS Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1938-1964)
Jefferson Nickels FS Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1938-present)
Jefferson Nickels Basic War Set, Circulation Strikes (1942-1945)
Despite having won in this category for the past four years, Just Having Fun continues to upgrade when possible, inching ever closer to perfection.  This set contains over 91% Full Steps, many of which are Top Pops and/or unique for the grade.  By his own admission, this dedicated collector has been a lover of the Jefferson Nickel series since circa 1950.

The Corso Collection - Jefferson Nickel Variety Collection (1938-Present)
Jefferson Nickels FS with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1938-present)
Jefferson Nickels with Varieties, Proof (1938-present)
The Corso Collection of Jefferson Nickels is the current and All-Time Finest set in the Mint State category, and has been for the last five years.  Almost 90% of the coins in this set show Full Steps.  Corso is also the leader in the Proof category.  Of the 70 Proofs in Corso’s complete set, over 84% are Deep Cameos.

EBL III Collection - Roosevelt Dimes, Proof (1950-1964)
The EBL III Collection wins an award for the sixth consecutive year by combining 100% completion with a GPA of 70.84!  The key to winning in this category is to obtain as many DCAM coins as possible, since those coins add desirable bonuses.  In this case, EBL III has reached a level of 86.67% DCAM’s, the highest level ever accomplished by anyone.  For all dates other than 1964, EBL III has the finest obtainable grade.

Just Having Fun - Roosevelt Dimes FB Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1946-Present)
Roosevelt Dimes FB Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1946-Present)
Roosevelt Dimes FB, Circulation Strikes (1946-1964)
Roosevelt Dimes FB, Circulation Strikes (1965-Present)
For the third year in a row, Just Having Fun’s set of Roosevelt Dimes dominates the competition, albeit by a slim margin.  Here’s what another PCGS Set Registry participant had to say about this set: “This set is insane and almost impossible to top. Great job. JBJ”.  We could not have said it better.

Mitchell J. Spivack (Wondercoin) - Washington Quarters, Circulation Strikes (1965-1998)
Mitch Spivack is a well-known dealer of high-end modern coins who has been instrumental in building of many of the award-winning sets in the PCGS Set Registry.  These are some of the most difficult modern coins to find in top condition and the fact that Mitch has been able to reach an average grade of over 67 is simply incredible.

Douglas Rall - Washington Statehood Quarters, Circulation Strikes (1999-Present)
For the last two years, Douglas Rall shared top honors for this category with fellow collector, Donn Murphy.  This year, Douglas pulled ahead by a mere two-hundredths of a point, just enough to take the top spot.  Douglas has a good eye for quality and has “made” many of the coins in this exceptional set.

GRFN - Franklin Half Dollars FBL, Circulation Strikes (1948-1963)
Franklin Half Dollars FBL Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1948-1963)
Franklin Half Dollars FBL, Circulation Strikes (1948-1963)
GRFN has been a PCGS Set Registry participant since 2002, but has labored in the shadows of Hall of Famer JFS Set-1.  This year, GRFN gets to shine in the spotlight, having upgraded to a Weighted GPA of 68.44 in August 2006.  R&I Coins appears in the pedigree notes often, illustrating the importance of working with a knowledgeable and well-connected dealer in your specialty.

EBL III Collection - Franklin Half Dollars, Proof (1950-1963)
Franklin Half Dollars Basic Set, Proof (1950-1963)
Franklin Half Dollars with Varieties, Proof (1950-1963)
The EBL III Collection is a monster set of Deep Cameo Proof Franklins. The set has dominated the Basic category for the last six years and is a Hall of Fame Set. EBL III is a winner for the third year in a row in the With Varieties category and needs only one upgrade to reach a perfect score of 70.56.

The Ogden Collection - Kennedy Half Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1964-Present)
Kennedy Half Dollars Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1964-Present)
Kennedy Half Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1964-Present)
Kennedy Half Dollars with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1964-Present)
With the retirement of Richard Green’s Finest Kennedy Collection, the Ogden collection moves into first place.  Ogden appears to have purchased some of the Green collection coins, proving that being in the right place at the right time is critical to building collections.  Those fortuitous purchases allowed Ogden to leapfrog over other collections that have been around a lot longer.

Kallenberg Collection - Kennedy Half Dollars, Proof (1964-Present)
The Kallenberg collection is now the All-Time Finest set (having tied for the top spot last year) and needs only one upgrade to seal the outcome.  This set is positively dripping with PR-70’s and EVERY coin is a Deep Cameo.

Phil Shattuck (PD Shad) - Kennedy Half Dollars Complete Set (1964-Present)
PD Shad began collecting Kennedy Half Dollars in 1998 and for the last two years has had the number one set in the category.  PD has received a lot of help from other collectors and dealers (whom he often thanks in the Owner's Comments column), but he has also made some of the coins himself.

James Sego JMS Coins - Eisenhower Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1971-1978)
Eisenhower Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1971-1978)
Eisenhower Dollars with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1971-1978)
James Sego has built the finest set of Eisenhower Dollars in existence and it has taken him over 20 years to do it.  PCGS has displayed this Hall of Fame set on two occasions, to the acclaim of all who have seen it.  Mr. Sego is an aggressive collector eagerly seeking the two coins he needs to finish upgrading his set.

Amoskeag Ike Collection - Eisenhower Dollars, Proof (1971-1978)
This is a short set of only 11 coins and it is one of the most active sets on the Registry.  In 2006, Amoskeag posted their set and catapulted to the top spot.  This set has a perfect score of 69.65, meaning that every coin is in the finest possible condition.

DRG - Susan B. Anthony Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1979-1981, 1999)
This set continues its dominance of the category, earning its sixth consecutive award.  Each coin is the finest obtainable, resulting in a perfect Weighted GPA.  The presence of two unique, Top Pop coins in this set means that no one can ever match the quality of this superb collection.

CGC - Sacagawea Dollar Collection (2000-Present)
Sacagawea Dollars, Circulation Strikes (2000-present)
Sacagawea Dollars, Proof (2000-present)
The CGC collection of Sacagawea Dollars leads the category for the fifth year in a row and will probably remain there thanks to its ownership of the unique MS-69 2002-D Millenium Set coin.  A single coin (an MS-69 2000-D) is needed to achieve a perfect score.

J. Michael Halwig M.D. - Modern Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1982-present)
What a difference 12 days makes.  In this case, the Halwig Collection was the first to reach a Weighted GPA of 69.94 (which is an amazing three-hundredths of a point from perfection).  Twelve days later, Pittsburgh Collector, the perennial leader in this category, reached the same goal.  Thus, both the Halwig Collection and the Pittsburgh Collection receive a Best Modern Set this year.

Pittsburgh Collector - Modern Commemoratives, Circulation Strikes (1982-present)
This set is chock full of high grade coins representing some of the most diverse and interesting designs on all of numismatics.  The Pittsburgh Collection takes home its sixth consecutive award and we anticipate a pitched battle for top spot in this category.

Sam Eltonhead - Complete Modern Commemoratives Set (1982-present)
This newcomer's set first appeared on the PCGS Set Registry in June 2007 and immediately jumped into the premiere position.  The interesting aspect of this set is that collectors and non-collectors can enjoy this set because of the superb quality and the fascinating, historic themes.

Dylan's Gold - Gold Eagles $5, Circulation Strikes (1986-present)
Replete with Top Pop MS-70's, this collection is nearly perfect in overall quality, with only a three of the 23 coins needing an upgrade.  This set belongs to a Young Numismatist who wins again in this category for the third time.

Warren's Wings - Gold Eagles $50, Circulation Strikes (1986-present)
Every coin in this collection is preserved in the finest possible condition, yielding a perfect GPA.  This set has been the top set in the category for four years running, but the perfect score was achieved in May 2007.  Few collectors, in any category, have ever achieved this lofty goal.

Dennis Handel - Silver & Gold Eagles Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1986-present)
This is a brand new set that was first posted in May 2007 and which immediately moved to the All-Time Finest position, proving that there are meaningful sets out there just waiting to make it onto the PCGS Set Registry.  The intrinsic value of this collection is very high, as is the overall condition.

The MKJ Collection - Silver & Gold Eagles Complete Set, Proof (1986-present)
In February 2007, the owner of this collection upgraded to a perfect score of 70, pushing this set to an unbeatable position and recognition as the All-Time Finest collection in this category.  As expected, every coin is a Top Pop, with at least a couple of them being unique for the PR-70 grade.  Where possible, every coin is also a Deep Cameo.

Steve & Raquel Garris (The Garris Collection) - Platinum Eagles Complete Set, Proof (1997-present)
The Garris Collection is tied with the Marshall Collection for top honors in this category.  Both collections have a perfect 70 GPA, but the Garris' were the first to reach 70, giving them top billing on the leader board.  The fact that we have two collections with perfect scores is extraordinary.

Larry and Anne Marshall (The Marshall Collection) - Platinum Eagles Complete Set, Proof (1997-present)
The Marshall Collection consists of perfect PR-70 examples of every date and denomination in the Platinum Eagles.  The mintages of these coins can be extremely low, but the quality of the Mint's work has been outstanding.  The Marshalls have done a wonderful job of corralling the finest possible examples.

ErasmusHall - 1968-Present Mint Set
We cannot imagine a more ambitious set than one that includes high-grade, Mint State examples of every date and mintmark in every denomination from 1968 to date.  That's 513 per coins at current count.  ErasmusHall needs only a few common coins to achieve 100% completion, which will add some fractional points to the already high GPA.

Joel Puncochar - 1950 Mint Set
Joel's 1950 Mint Set receives its second annual award for Best Modern Set.  This is a short set of only 13 coins, but Joel has pieced together some remarkable examples.  Joel is also actively working on the set and actually improved the Weighted GPA shortly after this year's deadline.  Keep up the good work!

Ten Best Set Registry Newcomers of 2007

Great Basin Collection - Carson City Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1870-1893)
This is truly a collector’s collection and one that required a tremendous amount of time, money, and effort to assemble.  This set joined the PCGS Set Registry in January 2007 and immediately rose to the top position based on the level of completion and the exceptional quality of the coins.  Only four coins are needed to bring this set to completion.

ESM - U.S. Cents Complete Set (1793-present) 
U.S. Cents Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1793-present)
U.S. Cents Complete Set, Proof (1817-present)
U.S. Cents Complete Set (1793-present)
ESM posted his collection of Half Cents, Large Cents, and Small Cents in September 2006 and he has upgraded the set as recently as July 2007.  This is a lengthy set that includes some very rare and elusive coins and ESM deserves a lot of credit for not only attempting this set but for succeeding so admirably.

Ronald C. Martin (Martin's Collection) - U.S. Nickels Complete Set (1866-present)
Martin’s Collection first appeared in the PCGS Set Registry in September 2006 and has been upgraded as late as April 2007.  The set is 95.59 complete with a Weighted GPA of 65.50 (which comes very close to the optimum score of 67.63).

Gopher State Collection - Gold Type Set, Circulation Strikes (1795-1933)
In November 2006, this wonderful set of gold type coins hit the PCGS Set Registry.  It is the finest Current Set and ranks third on the All-Time Finest list.  The Gopher State Collection is less complete than the Smithsonian Collection, but it is more complete than the Eliasberg Collection, which says a lot.  The contents of the set are private and it sure would be nice to peek around the curtain and see what's inside.

Gopher State Collection - Complete Capped Bust Type Set with Gold (1807-1839)
This set was posted in June 2007 and it is 100% complete.  The inclusion of the Capped Bust gold coins in this set increases the cost and level of effort required to even attempt this set, which means there are few participants in this category.  However, Gopher State is clearly very serious about tackling this rare, esoteric set.

The Law Collection - Bust Half Dimes with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837)
The Law Collection of Bust Half Dimes With Varieties remained unpublished until 2007.  The underlying date set in this collection consists solely of Top Pop coins.  The varieties add another layer of difficulty, but Law has them all in either top condition or really close.

Robert D. Hesselgesser M.D. - Early Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Early Dollars Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Early Dollars with Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
Early Dollars with Bolender & Bowers/Borckardt Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
In June 2007, Dr. Hesselgesser posted his 100% complete collection of early dollars, leaping to the top of the Current Finest list and second on the All-Time Finest list.  His Bolendar & Bowers/Borckardt set, which he published in January, 2007, is the All-Time Finest. We fully expect that Dr. Hesselgesser wants to build the very best collection ever assembled and, if anyone can do it, he can.

Jim O'Neal - Indian Head $5 Gold, Circulation Strikes (1908-1929)
Indian Head $5 Gold Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1908-1929)
Indian Head $5 Gold, Circulation Strikes (1908-1929)
Mr. O'Neal posted his superb collection of Indian Head Half Eagles in April 2007.  His set is currently the finest active set and fourth on the All-Time Finest list.  All of the finer sets have been retired and/or disbursed so, hopefully, Mr. O'Neal will have a shot at some of the coins he needs to rise to the top position.

Pocket Piece - Complete U.S. Type Set, Low Ball (1792-1964)
You have to look at this set.  The goal is to obtain the WORST possible example of every type and Pocket Piece has done quite well in achieving that goal.  This represents the epitome of contrarian thinking, but what a fun way to collect coins! 

Five Best Colonials, Private Issues & Territorial Gold and Patterns Sets of 2007

Gopher State Collection - Early American Coins and Tokens Basic Design Set (1616-1820)
The Gopher State Collection is 100% complete within the requirements of this category.  Although the condition of the renowned Garrett collection was slightly finer than Gopher State’s, the former was not as complete as the latter.  The contents of this set are private, but the Weighted GPA of 58.01 suggests that there are some really nice coins contained within.

Robert H. Lande - California Fractional Gold - Complete Collection, Period One
Period One Fractional Gold pieces are generally scarce, with some varieties being nearly impossible to locate.  It takes tremendous persistence and dedication to build a set like this.  Mr. Lande has done a remarkable job.  His set, which has won numerous awards, remains at the top of the Current and All-Time Finest lists.

The Stefano Family (The Kodiak Collection) - Alaska RRC Bingles (1935)
These intriguing tokens were issued circa 1935-1936 in Alaska and are seldom seen today.  Kodiak has built a set that is 100% complete and in nearly perfect condition.  This is the second annual award for Kodiak and they remain at the top of the All-Time Finest list.

Lakesamm Collection - Flying Eagle and Indian Head Cents - Short Set (1858)
This set of 12 pattern coins is extremely popular and attracts interest from both pattern collectors and aficionados of the Flying Eagle and Indian Head Cent collectors.  Lakesamm has completed this set and all of the coins are in top-notch condition.  Every coin is a Top Pop, many are unique for the grade, and Lakesamm politely asks the owner of the one coin he needs to please sell it to him!

Legend Collection - Gobrecht Dollar Patterns Redbook Set (1836-1839)
Tradedollarnut has built a Gobrecht Dollar set for the ages.  Every one of the five coins in this set is a great rarity and the owner is famous for seeking out the very best examples, particularly those with great color, eye appeal, or pedigree.  There is no competition in this category, further indicating the sheer difficulty in even attempting this set.

Best British Sets of 2007

Hornreich Collection - George IV Sovereign Date Set, Proof (1821-1826)
This is the third consecutive Best British Set award for the Hornreich collection.  Only three coins comprise this set, but they are all important rarities in exceptional condition.

Caranett - Edward VII Sovereign Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1902-1910)
For the second year in a row, the Caranett Collection takes top honors in this category with an assemblage of Edward VII sovereigns from the far regions of the British Empire.  The combination presented here includes nine coins, all Top Pop coins.

Caranett - George V Sovereign Date Set, Circulation Strikes (1911-1932)
This set includes Sovereigns from Britain, South Africa, and Australia, all of which are Top Pop coins and many of which are unique for the grade.  The Caranett Collection proves what many knowledgeable collectors have understood for a long time – that British Sovereigns are some of the most difficult coins to find in high grade.

Best Canadian Sets of 2007

 Lantern Collection - Canadian Coins Complete Set, Circulation Strikes (1858-1952)
What an ambitious set!  One of every Canadian coin issued: all denominations, all dates and mintmarks, including varieties, in as fine a condition as possible.  These are 439 of the best Canadian coins we've ever seen.  With a nearly 20 point lead over his competitors, Lantern will dominate this category for years to come, just as he has since 2003.

The Beckman Collection - Dollars, Specimens (1935-1966)
This remarkable set of Canadian Silver Dollars includes not only every date but all of the major varieties, as well.  100% complete, this set includes some surprises, such as unique condition rarities and numerous Top Pop coins.  All of the coins are imaged and nicely presented on the PCGS Set Registry.

The Beckman Collection - Silver Dollars, Circulation Strikes (1935-1967)
Specimen Dollars are among the rarest of their type and are seen very infrequently.  Mr. Beckman has gathered together some of the finest Specimens in the world to form a collection that is not only 100% complete, but is astounding in its overall condition.

The Beckman Collection - Complete Gold Set, Circulation Strikes (1909-1914)
This 15-coin set includes Canadian sovereigns, $5 and $10 gold pieces.  The Beckman Collection features 100% completion and quite a few Top Pop coins.  As expected from any of the Beckman collections, this one boasts an extremely high rating (64 GPA versus a perfect score of 64.54).

Best Japanese Set of 2007

Ted Wydeven, Sr. (T&JW) - Japanese Gold Denomination Set (1870-1932)
With only five coins, this should be an easy set to complete, but it isn’t.  In fact, no other competitor in this category has more than three of the different denominations.  Thus, the T&JW set enjoys a nearly 30 point lead over the next-best collection.

Best Exhibited Sets of 2007

Robert D. Hesselgesser M.D. - Early Dollars with Bolender & Bowers/Borckardt Varieties, Circulation Strikes (1794-1803)
The cost of individual Bust Dollars makes collecting by die varieties extremely expensive, yet Dr. Hesselgesser has risen to the task and succeeded admirably.  When we displayed this set at a recent Long Beach Show, collectors were amazed by the scope and depth of the collection.  At the same time, Dr. Hesselgesser was coming up to us to show his new additions and upgrades.  Now, that’s enthusiasm!

Legend Collection - Amon Carter Toners (Pedigreed Coins - Showcase)
Tradedollarnut pulled seven of the most colorful Dollars from his sets of Gobrecht Dollars, Seated Liberty, and Trade Dollars – all reunited from the Amon Carter sale – and created one of the most talked about displays PCGS has ever featured.  All of the coins are rarities in either a real sense or because of their fabulous condition.

Best of the Registry Certificate Winners of 2007

(#1 set in each category with at least 75% completion, 6/29/07 6:00pm EST)