WASHINGTON - The United States Mint today announced that the 2002 United States Mint Silver Proof Set will be available by mail and phone on July 24, 2002. Sales on the United States Mint website at www.usmint.gov will also begin that day at 12:00 noon (EDT).

“The Silver Proof Set is perhaps the finest showcase of the minter’s art, capturing the best and most exciting elements of coining in one package: artistic beauty, precision craftsmanship, and the allure of precious metal,” said United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore. “This year marks the 10th anniversary of this extraordinary set, and represents a milestone in presenting the world’s finest, most elegantly presented silver proof coins to an ever-growing number of coin enthusiasts.”

The 10-Coin 2002 United States Mint Silver Proof Set is available for $31.95 and contains 90 percent silver proof versions of the five 2002 50 State Quarters®, 90 percent silver proof versions of the Roosevelt dime and Kennedy half dollar, as well as proof versions of the other circulating coins – the Lincoln cent, the Jefferson nickel and the Golden Dollar – which contain no silver. Produced at the San Francisco Mint facility, the coins bear the “S” mint mark. The sealed cases containing the coins are inserted into a specially printed sleeve and are accompanied by an official United States Mint Certificate of Authenticity.

Since demand is expected to be high for the 2002 Silver Proof Set, customers are encouraged to place orders early. The United States Mint reserves the right to limit quantities and may discontinue accepting orders at any time.

Beginning July 24, customers may purchase the 2002 United States Mint Silver Proof Set online using the United States Mint’s secure website at http://www.usmint.gov, or by calling 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Also, orders may be sent to United States Mint, P.O. Box 382601, Pittsburgh, PA 15250. A shipping and handling fee of $3.95 per order will be added to all domestic orders. Hearing and speech impaired customers may order by calling 1-888-321-MINT (6468) (TTY). There are no household limits. Customers may order as many sets as they wish, while supplies last. Please allow approximately two to three weeks for delivery.