Congratulations to the NGC 2025 Registry Award Winners!
发布 于 2025/8/21
Each year, Numismatic Guaranty Company® (NGC®) honors the collectors whose passion, precision and creativity help define excellence in numismatics. The NGC Registry Awards recognize the best and most beautifully presented sets among the more than 394,000 registered collections submitted by more than 40,000 collectors from around the world.
This year, NGC is thrilled to debut the NGC Registry Awards at the American Numismatic Association (ANA) World’s Fair of Money®, held in August. As the Official Grading Service of the ANA, NGC is proud to bring the hobby’s most prestigious Registry honors to the community’s most celebrated event. There is no more fitting venue to spotlight the artistry, scholarship and competitive spirit that define today’s leading coin collectors.
From ancient rarities to modern bullion and from precision-matched Mint State runs to inventive custom sets, this year’s winners represent the very best of what coin collecting has to offer. Our team of expert judges carefully evaluated top-ranked sets in every category, reviewing not only scores, but also the quality of images, research and storytelling that bring these collections to life. The competition was fierce — but after much deliberation, we are proud to recognize the following winners.
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David W. Lange Overall Achievement
For more than 20 years, Bruce Laquster has been a dominant presence in the NGC Registry. With a focus on US modern coinage — particularly commemoratives and Platinum Eagles — he has accumulated more than 1.35 million Registry points, placing him 51st overall. Of his 1,155 coins, more than half are illustrated and nearly 70% include written descriptions, highlighting a collector who values both quality and presentation.
Bruce Laquster’s impact is reflected in the accolades: a winner of several Best Modern Set honors and more than 500 Best in Category honors. Few collectors can match the consistency and competitiveness Bruce brings year after year. His sets are benchmarks in modern US categories and continue to inspire both new and veteran participants in the Registry.
With more than 2,000 coins entered and nearly 2 million Registry points, CCFFG ranks 25th overall in the Registry. But what truly sets this collector apart is a staggering 757 Best in Category awards — a total that places CCFFG among the most consistently competitive participants in Registry history.
While CCFFG has been recognized previously with a Best Modern Set award, their collecting achievements span multiple standout categories, including First Spouse $10 Gold, America the Beautiful 5-Ounce silver coins and US Platinum Eagles. The latter features some of the most elusive and desirable coins in modern US numismatics, including the highly coveted Frosted Freedom $50 and $100 issues. CCFFG's sustained excellence, depth and precision make this honor richly deserved.
Vett
With a Registry point total of 2.38 million, Vett ranks 17th overall — but among world coin collectors, that ranking jumps to 7th globally. Even so, Vett often flies under the radar, as this collector’s wide-ranging interests don’t always align neatly with standard set definitions. But make no mistake: Vett’s presence is felt everywhere, from Australian Sovereigns to Finnish Markka.
Vett’s greatest strength lies in late Soviet Union precious metal issues from 1977 to 1991. Among the highlights are top-ranking sets of 150 Roubles in platinum and 100 Roubles in gold, built in both Mint State and Proof. Duplicate sets further showcase depth and attention to quality. For collectors exploring modern world coinage, Vett’s Registry profile is a treasure trove of dedication and diversity.
Best Classic Sets
German Empire, 1871-1918 – Andrey Selyanin
The unification of Germany in 1871 gave rise to one of the most visually diverse and historically rich coinages in modern Europe, and Andrey Selyanin has built a type set that captures its full breadth and evolution. His collection spans the imperial silver minors to the commemorative and circulating crown-sized coins of the constituent states. As a group, these coins show the stylistic arc from traditional numismatic portraiture to more modernist motifs, a contrast that Selyanin clearly embraces. His emphasis on brilliant luster and Gem-level preservation is especially evident in the large Silver 5 Mark coins, where nearly every example grades MS 64 or MS 65. With just three coins remaining for full completion, this set still dominates its competitive category by a commanding 25,000-point margin. An ambitious and artfully curated tribute to a once-fragmented empire.
TDP - 3 Cent Nickel Proofs – TD Petersen
The 3 Cent Nickel is one of those curious denominations that tells a uniquely American story. Created to pay for postage, then rendered obsolete by the evolving logic of the decimal system, its brief life left behind a trail of beautiful Proofs — now transformed into a dazzling showcase by collector TD Petersen. Twenty of the 26 coins in his set are Top Pop, but numbers alone don’t tell the full story. From the incredible PF 67★ Ultra Cameo 1865, the first year of issue, to the Proof-only 1877 in an astonishing PF 68★ Cameo, this is a set packed with rarity and aesthetic appeal. Every coin sparkles with superb surfaces. Despite being essentially unimprovable, Petersen somehow continues to refine and elevate this set. For connoisseurs of classic Proofs and collectors of the unusual, this is a masterpiece worth studying.
1 Florin 1872-92 – Franz Joseph
As his Registry name suggests, collector Franz Joseph has immersed himself in the coinage of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, and this stunning set of florins is the fruit of that specialization. These half-crown-sized silver coins represent the final design type of the denomination prior to Austria-Hungary’s coinage reform, and they are not easy to find well-preserved. Yet this set is not only 100% complete, it is brimming with carefully selected Gems, including a final-year 1892 graded MS 66 that any collector would envy. The overall impression is one of elegance — original surfaces with light patina and consistently high quality throughout. The depth of knowledge and curatorial care here makes this a standout in the Registry, and fellow enthusiasts of European coinage would do well to examine this collection closely.
JR's Washingtons 1932-1998 – JRM Coins
The Washington Quarter has long held a dual identity — ubiquitous in commerce and quietly demanding in numismatics. JRM Coins has risen to the challenge with a remarkable set that stretches from the classic silver strikes of the Depression era through to the clad coinage of the late 20th century. Leading the field by more than 20,000 Registry points, this set opens strong with a blazing MS 67 1932 Philadelphia, then takes off with a parade of pre-World War II Philadelphia mint issues graded MS 67 and MS 68, many enhanced by vivid, colorful toning. The quality doesn't taper as the series transitions into clad compositions. Even the often-overlooked conditional rarities of the 1970s and 1980s are represented by MS 66 and MS 67 examples — no shortcuts here. This is a labor of precision, passion and sustained effort. A benchmark set for one of America’s most beloved coins.
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is frequently cited as the most beautiful silver coin ever produced by the United States Mint — and viewing MLM Coins’ Proof set leaves little doubt as to why. This short but highly competitive series (1936-1942) is elevated here to new heights and top points ranking, thanks in large part to a trio of NGC Star-designated coins, recognized for their outstanding eye appeal. Equally impressive are the two pieces that have earned PF 69 grades — nearly flawless in both surface and strike. Across all seven coins, there is a consistent preference for superior presentation. Deeply emblematic of American strength and optimism, the design has found its ideal showcase in this Registry set — an inspiring accomplishment built through vision and dedication.
Salvia rosmarinus – Frau Scully
A set as thoughtfully constructed as this deserves an evocative name, and Salvia rosmarinus — the botanical name for rosemary — proves fitting. Frau Scully’s masterfully built collection of Proof Franklin Half Dollars, including varieties, evokes a kind of cultivated beauty. The highlights are many: Ultra Cameo rarities like the 1950, 1956 Type 1, 1959 and the 1961 Doubled Die Reverse, as well as a bench of Top Pop coins that elevate this set above formidable competition. More than just technical superiority, there’s a sense of presentation throughout — many coins are housed in the eye-catching We the People holder. With its high degree of completion and unwavering quality, this set is a fresh and fragrant standout in a well-tended field.
Few Registry categories are more fiercely pursued than the GSA Hard Pack Morgan Dollars from Carson City, and leading the Complete Set, Including Varieties category is no small feat. Yet Terry A’s set, The Yellow Roses, does just that — by a staggering 50,000-point margin. Nearly complete at 92%, the set earns its distinction through condition. More than half the coins are Top Pop, and three — 1881-CC, 1883-CC and 1884-CC — have received the lofty MS 67 DPL grade. GSA holders with coins of this caliber are rarely seen. What truly wowed the judges, however, were the 1879-CC varieties, both graded MS 65+. To assemble such a high-grade representation of these iconic Western silver dollars in their original government holders is a rare achievement. This set is pure Western wonder.
Collection of Milled British Half Crowns Since 1816 – M.T.
This ambitious set charts more than a century of British history through the Half Crown, one of the most iconic denominations of the British Empire. M.T. has tackled the span of issues from George III’s 1816 introduction through to the end of pre-decimal coinage under Elizabeth II. The set demands 126 coins, yet already reaches 88% completion — an extraordinary feat in just three years. Highlights abound, including an 1816 George III MS 65, a glowing 1825 George IV in MS 65, a regal Victoria young head 1882 in MS 66 and an exquisite 1912 George V in MS 66. A particularly difficult run of 1840s Victoria coins is also well represented in Mint State. With an average grade north of MS 64, this is a stunning, scholarly and beautifully curated set that brings Britain’s imperial story to life.
One Rupees of British India (1862-1947) – D. Bansal
The Silver Rupees of British India are current among the most actively studied and collected coins throughout the world, and D. Bansal has emerged as a standout collector in this space. His set includes coins from the reigns of Victoria through George VI, and it follows the meticulous attribution model laid out by Stevens and Weir. Completing a high-grade rupee set is no easy task. Because of environmental and handling issues, fully Mint State examples can be elusive in the extreme. Yet Bansal’s set, at just 62% complete, already leads the Registry by 20,000 points. It is at once a working catalog and a labor of passion, and it offers a window into one of today’s most dynamic numismatic frontiers.
Maundy Type Set – Alabamaman1969
Few traditions in numismatics carry the charm and history of Maundy money — small silver alms distributed annually by British monarchs since the reign of Charles II. Alabamaman1969’s type set is a beautifully realized tribute to this tradition, with one coin of each denomination (1p, 2p, 3p, 4p) from every monarch since 1660. It’s a 64-coin journey through royal portraiture and ceremony, now 87% complete and growing. Most of the coins are uncirculated, but several are downright spectacular — Edward VII issues in MS 67 and MS 68 are particular highlights. This collection brings together beauty, scarcity and deep historical resonance. A heartfelt and highly refined accomplishment.
Best Modern Sets
LEW’S Coin & Chronicles Set – lcs1129
The U.S. Mint’s Coins & Chronicles Sets represent a modern twist on numismatic tradition, combining Presidential Dollar coins with medals and other commemoratives to create something far more than the sum of its parts. Interest in the series skyrocketed with the introduction of Reverse Proof Dollars — coins struck exclusively for these sets — bringing with them a surge of collector attention. Yet no one has embraced the full potential of this series quite like lcs1129. His set is wonderful: every coin graded a perfect 70, except for the 2013 Theodore Roosevelt bronze medal, which is known no finer than MS 69 RD. The result is a wholly unimprovable collection and a study in what modern collecting can be at its best: diverse, engaging and beautifully executed.
In the fiercely contested category of modern U.S. gold commemoratives, xokie has risen to the top — not by being the only set to reach perfection, but by being the first to do so. His complete 95-coin set includes every modern gold commemorative in both Mint State and Proof, all graded MS 70 and PF 70 Ultra Cameo. While fellow collectors Bruce Laquster and CCFFG share the No. 1 ranking, both have already been honored in past years. This year, the spotlight belongs to xokie. With interest in gold commemoratives surging again — thanks to slimming mintages and renewed excitement over future releases — this collection stands as both a timely benchmark and a formidable challenge for those who follow.
Maverick’s Eagles – Maverick991
The American Silver Eagle is already the world’s most widely collected silver coin — but within that broad field lies a fascinating subgenre of limited-issue and event-specific releases. Maverick991 has gone deep into that niche, assembling an astonishingly near-complete set of 241 Silver Eagles, including coins issued at trade shows, special events and even Mint auctions of backdated coins held during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these pieces were produced at branch mints like San Francisco or Philadelphia and released only briefly, often through specialized packaging with little fanfare, making the logistics in acquiring such a collection daunting. While a handful of other sets are close, none surpass Maverick991’s effort. He has shown both vision and perseverance in a category where striving to completion means everything.
Gold 1/2 oz. 50Y-200Y, 2000-2011 – newlinter
What began as an intriguing new series when gold was trading at under $300 an ounce has, today, become a pillar of prestige. China’s first Lunar Series of half-ounce gold coins, issued annually from 2000 to 2011, features each of the twelve zodiac animals arranged in a clever annular sector shape — together forming a complete circle when all are acquired. With captivating animal portraits on the obverse and scenic gate towers on the reverse, the set offers both visual charm and a uniquely collectible design format. Past winner newlinter returns with another triumph, having assembled the full series in outstanding grades and, once again, bested the field. Innovative, elegant and steeped in symbolism, this collection stands out as one of the most artistically satisfying in the modern Registry.
The Somalia African Wildlife series has captured the imaginations of collectors around the globe, and Wild Safari by keys213 shows exactly why. Elephants serve as the central theme, with designs that change annually and highlight both the majesty of the animal and broader conservation concerns. Since 2004, the series has expanded to include a dazzling range of formats — from gold and silver Proofs to individually numbered kilos and elusive privy-marked issues. The set now spans 326 coins, and keys213 has nearly 90% of them. This isn’t just a Registry achievement — it’s an adventure. Anyone diving into this set can appreciate the scale, rarity and persistence required. Like the creatures it honors, this collection commands attention.
SVcollector www.svcollector.com – Chris Pouloglou
With a razor-thin margin separating the top contenders, Chris Pouloglou’s SVcollector has emerged victorious in one of the tightest races of the year. Topping the leaderboard with 117,170 points, the first place set is separated by just 3,000 points from the fifth-place set. This collection is complete, maxed out in quality and utterly unimprovable — every coin graded PF 70 Ultra Cameo. Its subject is Sovereigns, a storied denomination once central to world commerce once struck simultaneously in Britain, Canada, Australia, South Africa and India. Today’s sovereigns are struck in multiple nations to honor that legacy, and Pouloglou’s set is a brilliant showcase of these modern incarnations. With immense collector interest and fierce ongoing competition, holding the top spot here is no small feat — it’s a testament to precision and perseverance.
All American Eagles MS70 – Roberto Zen
At a jaw-dropping 592,126 points, Roberto Zen’s All American Eagles MS70 is monumental. The set spans every bullion and uncirculated American Eagle coin across all three metals — Silver, Gold and Platinum — all graded MS 70. Currently 88% complete through 2022, Zen’s set has been the category’s frontrunner for an incredible 14 years. His long-standing dominance makes this Best Modern Set recognition long overdue. While many collectors view American Eagles as a precious metal investment, Zen has elevated them into a refined, highly strategic pursuit. His dedication, foresight and competitive spirit have set a standard that will challenge even the most ambitious Registry participants.
1985-2016 $20.00 Proof Coins – Martens
With 356 coins required for completion, this Royal Canadian Mint 20 Dollar Silver Proof set stands as one of the most expansive and eclectic modern collections in the Registry. Themes range from Olympic athletes to ships, planes and natural wonders — and the minting techniques are just as diverse, including gilding, holograms and full-color printing. Martens has accomplished the near-impossible by assembling 98% of the set, and the result is nothing short of dazzling. To scroll through this collection is to experience a panorama of Canadian culture and minting innovation. With so many beautiful and clever designs to choose from, one thing is guaranteed: You’ll never settle on a single favorite.
Smithsonian® Collection – The Benson Collection
The Smithsonian Collection offers one of the most intellectually rewarding experiences in modern numismatics. Encompassing both official and private issues from 2007 to 2023, this 77-coin category spans Chinese medals commemorating beloved pandas to precious metal reinterpretations of famous US coinage. The Smithsonian Collection is 93% complete, with no close second in sight. This set educates as much as it dazzles: included are three versions of A.A. Weinman’s proposed Peace Dollar design, a revelation to many collectors. Rich in history, beautifully executed and expertly curated, this is a connoisseur’s collection that brings the National Numismatic Collection to life in a tangible, personal way.
Silver Panda Medals, 1984-Date Proof – Russ736
While the Silver Panda coin is China’s flagship modern collectible, its lesser-known sibling — the Panda medal — offers a playground of creativity and variation. Russ736’s set showcases these Proof silver medals dating from 1984 onward, now totaling 224 individual issues. With themes ranging from international coin expositions to historical anniversaries, many of these medals were struck in very small numbers and distributed only at specific events. Acquiring them requires knowledge, persistence and a bit of luck. At 80% complete, Russ736 has already assembled one of the deepest and most sophisticated Panda medal collections in the world. A longtime force in the Registry, this achievement deserves special and singular recognition.
Best Presented Sets
Benchmark Collection – Penny – Strandcoins
Strandcoins has created a standout set of Australian pennies (1911-1964) that not only reveals their preferences as a collector but also demonstrates great attention to presentation. Continuity appears to be a key objective — nearly every coin exhibits original red color, while some have mellowed gracefully with age. Australian pennies are known for their manufacturing quirks, including planchet flaws and uneven toning, yet Strandcoins has skillfully curated pieces with pleasing, even color across the board. Every coin is shown against a uniform black background, allowing their surfaces to shine and making the visual flow of the set feel as consistent as its composition. A delight to view and a masterclass in curation and aesthetics.
Saints are the Golden Proof! – Good Trimes
Proof Saint-Gaudens $20 gold pieces are among the most coveted U.S. coins, and Good Trimes has assembled a complete set worthy of admiration in any Registry category. Starting strong with a PF 69 High Relief example — yes, really! — every coin here is either a Gem or Superb Gem. Displayed in NGC holders, the coins reveal subtle but fascinating color differences from year to year, especially evident in the Matte and Satin Proofs. For the judges, what made this collection even more memorable were the collector’s witty set titles — evidence that, while Good Trimes is clearly serious about the pursuit, he’s also having a great time. A powerful reminder of why we collect.
George III – Charles III, Proof Half Sovereign Type Set, 1817 to Date – Hades
Hades has taken on a bold and beautiful challenge — assembling a complete Proof type set of Half Sovereigns from the coin’s reintroduction in 1817 under George III through the reign of Charles III today. The set begins with a thoughtful introduction, and every coin is illustrated and annotated with insightful notes about design details, historical context, references and condition. The early issues are impressively high grade for their age, and the modern pieces are uniformly PF 70 Ultra Cameo. This is no casual effort. Hades’ passion for the Half Sovereign shines on every page, making this both a presentation and a personal journey worthy of distinction.
Simpson Proof Indian Half Eagles – Simpson
It’s rare that simply clicking through a set leaves one stunned, but that’s exactly what happens here. Simpson, a name known across the hobby, has compiled a complete run of Indian Head Proof $5 gold pieces — a rare and challenging US gold series to collect in such condition. Each coin is a showstopper, with grades ranging from PF 66 to PF 68 and featuring stars and plus grades that push the absolute limits of preservation. The two Satin finish coins of 1909 and 1910 (graded PF 67★ and PF 68+, respectively) are particularly jaw-dropping. This set is proof — literally and figuratively — of why Simpson remains one of the most respected names in the Registry.
Jayhawk Gold’s M.E. Hart's Coins of the Golden West – Jayhawk Gold
Jayhawk Gold presents a complete and charming set of Hart’s Coins of the Golden West, gold tokens sold at the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. His introduction sets the stage for this highly specialized collection, evoking the American frontier spirit. Each piece — tiny in size but large in charm — is photographed in clear detail, and the collector provides Locke reference numbers and rarity ratings for every item. These gold tokens are unique mementos of the California and Yukon gold rush eras, and this set captures their appeal with both precision and affection. A brilliant example of what makes token and medal collecting so compelling.
Fifty years of collecting experience come into sharp focus in The “Beach” Collection, a best-in-category Carson City Morgan Dollar set from pso. A short introduction reveals the collector’s long-standing love of these iconic GSA Hard Pack coins. From there, the viewer is treated to a visual feast: coin after coin in extraordinary condition, including an MS 67+★ 1880-CC Reverse of 1879 and a blazing MS 67★ DPL 1884-CC. This set is clean, consistent and captivating — exactly what Registry presentation should aspire to be. That pso has continued to refine this set over half a century makes it all the more remarkable.
BlakeEik puts it best: “This set is my baby… the set I tirelessly research, searching for the best available coins.” …No Object is a textbook example of what the Registry is all about. It features all 50 circulating U.S. type coins of the 20th century, each one in extraordinary condition — think MS 67 RD Indian Head, MS 67 RD V.D.B. Lincoln, MS 68 Steel Cent, and it just keeps going. Every coin is fully imaged, and each listing contains concise historical background, mintage information and personal commentary. For anyone seeking a comprehensive yet personal look at 20th-century US coinage, this set is as good as it gets.
Vatican, Sede Vacante Coinage, 1939-Date, Complete – SHOEDT1
SHOEDT1’s fascinating collection of Sede Vacante coinage — issues struck between papacies — offers a unique lens into a niche but symbolically rich numismatic tradition. Spanning 1939 to the present day, the set is 100% complete and fully imaged. Descriptions include mintages, sources and acquisition notes, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at how such a set comes together. As papal portraits give way to coats of arms and radiant doves, the coins reveal both consistency and evolution in their iconography. This is a deeply thoughtful presentation of one of the most interesting coinage traditions in modern times.
Elizabeth II Proof Quintuple Sovereigns – 1817 - The Modern Sovereign Collector
Few collectors can resist the allure of the five-sovereign gold proof, and 1817 – The Modern Sovereign Collector has compiled a complete set of these one-ounce-plus beauties from 1980 to 2022. The set is 81% complete, with nearly every coin graded PF 70 Ultra Cameo. Each is shown in high-quality images, and viewers can trace the artistic progression of Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait through her reign. With commemorative designs and scarcer privy-marked pieces rounding out the visual story, this is a fitting tribute to both a queen and a golden denomination. A regal and refined presentation.
CYPRUS, Cent Coinage, 1983-2004, Complete Circulation Issue – TMS Coins
TMS Coins has created a true reference work with this complete set of Cyprus’s cent-denominated coins from 1983 to 2004. The presentation begins with a concise overview of the island’s coinage and a breakdown of the series. Each of the 68 coins is photographed (obverse and reverse), and full specifications, mintages and context are provided. Where relevant, changes in composition, diameter, or design are documented. While the collector doesn’t include personal background, the discipline and organization on display speak volumes. This is the final chapter in Cypriot Pound coinage before the Euro — and it’s written with clarity, care and pride.
Best New Sets
Keadle Collection Silver Type Set – Keadle Collection
This exceptional silver type set from the Keadle Collection covers Canadian coinage from 1858 to 1968 across five denominations and five monarchs — a span of history captured in just 22 coins. Every slot is filled, and 10 of those coins are Top Pop. The 1936 George V 50 Cent piece, graded MS 66 and pedigreed to the D. Moore Collection, is a standout among a set filled with competitors for that title. Working on this set inspired this collector to move to more focused denomination sets, engagement that we love to see from a winner in this category. For such a complete, high-grade and beautifully balanced new entry, Keadle Collection more than earns a Best New Set distinction.
2019-2025 USA Apollo Medals Robbins Restrikes Complete – Coin Maestro
Few numismatic series capture history like the Apollo Robbins Medals, originally produced for astronauts and spaceflight missions. This new set from Coin Maestro honors those historic keepsakes through modern restrikes in various metals, including space-flown material. With commemoratives for Apollo 11, 13 and 14, and hand-signed labels by astronauts Michael Collins and James Lovell, the set is a fitting tribute to one of humanity’s greatest achievements. Coin Maestro has assembled every issue and displays each in its holder, allowing both the medals and their autographed labels to shine. An exciting new set that brings space history into sharp numismatic focus.
Belgian type sets are notoriously intricate, with parallel Flemish and French issues complicating the approach. Collector Evert1 embraced the challenge, launching a set focused on circulating coinage of Leopold II (1865-1909). Already the set is filled with character and eye appeal, including the dramatic 1880 Jugate Bust Franc and a handsome Bronze 1880 Independence Commemorative. The Registry clearly inspired further exploration, and Evert1’s notes reflect the growth of a serious specialist. An engaging, elegant and promising new addition to the Registry.
One-Per-Year sets offer flexibility, but Eagles Nest has used that flexibility to demonstrate consistency and excellence. This set spans Roosevelt Dimes from 1938 to the present with 86 of the 88 required coins already included — nearly all in top grade and featuring a preference for bright, lightly toned pieces. While Eagles Nest is no stranger to Registry success, One at a Time is a fresh venture that already challenges the best in its category. Evidence that thoughtful collecting, even when simplified in concept, can yield complex beauty.
Steve’s Heraldic Art Medals – Steve;s
Between the end of classic U.S. commemoratives in 1954 and their revival in 1982, Robert McNamara’s Heraldic Art Medals filled a notable gap in American numismatics. These so-called half dollars, with their meaningful themes and attractive designs, have inspired a loyal following — and Steve;s now leads them all. Adding the set to the Registry within the last year, it is fully complete, with 66 of the 73 medals being Top Pop and three of the gold issues reaching the same distinction. An ambitious and deeply rewarding new entrant that preserves the charm of this overlooked series.
Among the earliest zodiac-themed gold coin sets, the Hong Kong Lunar Series (1976-1987) has enjoyed a resurgence of interest — and johngriver has seized that momentum. Focusing on the Mint State versions, which are conditionally more challenging than their Proof counterparts, he has assembled a complete 12-coin set, all graded MS 68 or MS 69. The competition was fierce — his score edged out last year’s winner by just 303 points — but that slim margin made the difference. This is a tightly focused, conscious effort that proves johngriver came to compete.
ACHIA5 – Complete Franklin Set – ACHIA5
Building a complete Franklin Half Dollar set with varieties in both Mint State and Proof is a massive undertaking — even more so for a newcomer. ACHIA5 joined the Registry in 2023 and is already ranked No. 1. While the set is just 74% complete, it bested last year’s Best in Category winner (98% complete) thanks to the quality of what is included. Top Pop Proofs like the 1951 and 1953 in PF 68 Ultra Cameo set a high standard, and Mint State highlights include a 1949 and 1952-D, both in MS 67 Full Bell Lines. This is what an elite new challenger looks like.
davek89's Krugerrand Gold Reef City Set – davek89
A specialized triumph, Gold Reef City Krugerrands were struck in limited numbers from 1987 to 1991 and feature a unique GRC mintmark. With mintages often under 1,000 coins per denomination, these coins are seldom seen, even by dedicated Krugerrand collectors. Enter davek89, who has built the only complete GRC set in the NGC Registry, with this set, his sole Registry set. It’s a niche pursuit executed with precision — a quietly historic accomplishment worthy of this Best New Set award.
Bucks 65-Date Circulated Garden of NGC Rosies – Jwbuckna
Modern Roosevelt dimes offer both accessibility and unexpected challenge, especially in high grades with Full Torch designation. New collector Jwbuckna joined the Registry in 2022 and already ranks No. 2 in a competitive modern category. His 85% complete set includes nearly 50% Pop Tops — a staggering feat — and just 20 coins remain. “Just have to be patient,” he says in the set description. That attitude, plus extraordinary progress in a short time, signals big things ahead. A patient, joyful and driven new addition to the Registry.
Clay’s UK Crowns 1990-2022, Silver PF – Clay_Stanek
Clay_Stanek joined the Registry in 2024 and quickly made waves with his set of UK £5 Silver Proof Commemoratives. Covering the full span of Elizabeth II’s large-format commemoratives from 1990 to 2022, the set includes 165 of the 179 required coins. These hefty silver pieces feature wide-ranging and dynamic designs — from King Tut to Hogwarts Express to the Rolling Stones — and showcase The Royal Mint’s flair for modern themes. Ranked third in the category in just months, this is a set that’s going places. We expect to see Clay_Stanek among the Best in Category contenders soon.
Best Custom Sets
Complete US Silver Assay Medals 1867-1963 – Fisk the Cat
This outstanding collection documents the silver medals struck annually for the US Assay Commission, which met annually to verify that US coinage met statutory metal content. Fisk the Cat focuses here on the silver issues, struck between 1867 and 1963, and has already assembled 43 of these elusive medals. Many are pedigreed to past major collections and all are illustrated with clear photographs. This is a remarkable effort to preserve a uniquely American numismatic tradition and a worthy winner in every sense.
1 Peso Coins of The Philippines (1897-1977) – The 12th Denticle
Spanning 80 years of monetary history, The 12th Denticle has combined several Registry categories to present a cohesive history of the Philippine Peso in a single set. With 40 coins included, this isn’t just a timeline — it’s a living textbook. Each entry features clear, thoughtful commentary that places the coin in historical context while also sharing the collector’s personal experience in acquiring it. With impressive completeness, high-grade examples and outstanding narrative presentation, this set stands as a model for what Custom Sets can achieve. A must-see for collectors of world or U.S.-Philippine coinage.
The U.S. Mint Goes to War – coin928
Previously honored in 2019 for its informative value, coin928’s The U.S. Mint Goes to War continues to inspire — and impress. Prompted by a Coin World article, this set aims to collect one example of every coin struck by the U.S. Mint for other countries during World War II. The collection features extensive commentary and historical detail, along with crisp photographs of each coin. But perhaps most striking is the number of views: this set has been seen more than 100,000 times, making it the most viewed Custom Set in the Registry. The impact of that visibility — and the knowledge it shares — cannot be overstated.
British Silver Three Pence Series from 1551 to the Present – TundraRaider
TundraRaider set out to build the most comprehensive collection of British Silver Threepence coins — and the result so far is stunning. With 127 coins ranging from Edward VI’s hammered issues to modern strikes, the set reflects not only numismatic range but depth: major and minor die varieties are represented, all illustrated, all referenced and many in Gem Uncirculated condition. The scope of this undertaking — across monarchies, mints, technologies and centuries — is remarkable. This set is already a wonderful achievement and one that promises even more as it continues to grow.
Carpe Diem – Ancients – yates697
Carpe Diem describes the approach to this set as “Having fun collecting ancients” — something that clearly has been achieved. It offers a broad range of ancient coins with a focus on high-grade “star” coins of exceptional eye appeal. Many of these also are blessed with attractive, old “cabinet toning.” At the time of its selection, the collection included 50 coins. With nearly 90% of these being Greek, a significant number of the classic Greek coin types are present, allowing anyone who uses the Registry’s slideshow feature to enjoy an excellent overview of money of the ancient Greek world simply by flipping through the deck. The owner supplements the core collection with some excellent Roman pieces, ranging from the age of the Republic through the Late Empire. Finding so many star-designated coins, which had to be acquired against stiff competition, is no easy task, and yates697 is to be congratulated on this accomplishment.
Most Informative Custom Set
The medals of Soho near Birmingham – coinsandmedals
Coinsandmedals explores the historical, artistic and social significance of Soho Mint medals, with detailed provenance and commentary for each piece in the set. The author also provides broader historical context around Matthew Boulton, the mint's founder, and the evolution of medallic art in industrial England. The medals themselves complement the text, each being exceptional representatives. Meaningfully, the collector has created a heartfelt tribute to the late Bill McKivor, whose passion, knowledge and generosity inspired the author to begin collecting medals struck at the Soho Mint. This is truly a wonderous effort, and NGC is proud that it resides on the Registry. Well deserved, coinsandmedals!
Most Creative Custom Set
America’s Coins through the Years/History in your hands. – VSI Collection
VSI Collection's date set features one U.S. coin from each year of Mint production, starting in 1793 and continuing through the present, with the goal of showcasing a wide variety of designs, denominations and mint products — including commemoratives and mint errors. As of May 2025, the set includes 220 of the 233. Coins are accompanied by personalized descriptions that highlight key historical events from each year. Here VSI Collection has seamlessly combined collecting coins and collecting history in an engaging and wholly enjoyable way.
The NGC Registry is a free online platform where collectors register and display their certified coins and can compete against other collectors around the world for recognition and prizes. The NGC Registry continues to be the world’s most comprehensive online coin collecting platform thanks to you, our treasured collectors.
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