1967 5C SMS, CA

The 1967 Special Mint Set was issued by the United States Mint as a substitute for regular Proof Sets, which were suspended from 1965–1967.  Why it exists  In 1965, the U.S. removed silver from circulating dimes and quarters and reduced silver in half dollars.  Coin hoarding caused shortages.  To keep collectors from pulling coins from circulation, the Mint:  Stopped Proof coins temporarily  Produced Special Mint Sets with a better finish than circulation coins, but not full Proof quality.