Coins - 1991 Proof Set

The 1991 proof set was the eighth year of the US Mint's purple packaging. The annual proof set, similar to the previous years, contained five proof coins with a face value of $0.91. The US Mint initially sold the 1991 proof set for $11 each. The proof coins included the Lincoln penny, Jefferson nickel, Roosevelt dime, Washington quarter and Kennedy half dollar.

1991 Proof Set Package

The outer box for the 1991 proof set was made using a textured purple card stock with silver-colored script along the top flap, "United States Mint Proof Set • 1991." The purple color of the box is a cross between purple and burgundy. To fit around the proof coins in their protective lens, the box dimensions are roughly 3.5 inches by 5.5 inches by 3/8 inch.

On the other side of the purple proof set, a silver-colored heraldic eagle from the Great Seal of the United States decorates the center of the box. An olive branch and arrows are held in the eagle's talons while a banner flows from his beak containing "E PLURIBUS UNUM." A circle with thirteen stars rests above the eagle's head and a shield with thirteen bars decorates the eagle's chest.

Moving the top with the written script from under the edge of the box allows access to the proof set. The protective lens with the five proof coins slides out of the box for ease of viewing both sides of the coins.

1991 Proof Set Contents and Proof Coins

Like the previous year, the 1991 proof set consists of the purple textured outer box, the protective lens holding the five proof coins and a pale purple card detailing the Proof Set Certificate of Authenticity and Coin Specifications.

With more streamlined processes in the Mint's production facilities, varieties in the proof sets became more rare in the 1990s. No known varieties exist for the 1991 proof set.

Also in 1991, the US Mint continued their Prestige Proof Set program. The 1991 Prestige Proof Set contained the five regular proof coins along with a commemorative silver dollar and a cupro-nickel clad half dollar recognizing the golden anniversary of Mount Rushmore.

The five proof coins in the 1991 proof set are evenly spaced in their purple card stock and are protected by the clear plastic lens. The obverse shows off frosted images of the presidents' portraits in contrast to the mirror-like background. A clear, raised script describes "United States Mint Proof Set" just below the proof coins. In the upper left corner, smaller, clear block letters state "PACKAGED BY U.S. MINT."

The reverse designs of the coins show the frosted images in contrast to the mirror-like background. In the plastic of the protective lens, the heraldic eagle, same as on the outer box, is above the Kennedy half dollar. The eagle in clear plastic relief contrasts with the purple card stock holding the proof coins in place.

Click on the 1991 Proof Set Certificate of Authenticity and Coin Specifications to view the details about the individual coins in the annual proof set.

1991 Proof Set Year Population and Cost of Living

The world population in 1991 was 5,371,956,011. This represents 78.4% of the world's population in 2010.

$100 in 1991 equals $160.10 in 2010 dollars using the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Inflation Calculator.

New houses in 1991 cost an average of $147,200 which would be $235,667 in 2010 dollars.

The average income was $21,812 per year which equals $34,920 in 2010 dollars.

Gas was $1.140 per gallon which would be $1.825 in 2010 money.

The average new car was $15,475 equivalent to $24,776 in 2010.

(Chart views into the cost of living changes throughout the Proof Set years)