what SAE coins are valuable?
 

just bought a small stack at near spot from a private seller. what years should i set aside for bullion and what years should i look to unload for numismatic value (i.e. 1996)?

Re: what SAE coins are valuable?
 

1996 - 3.60M
1994 - 4.22M
1997 - 4.29M
1995 - 4.76M
1998 - 4.84M
1988 - 5.00M
1989 - 5.20M
1986 - 5.39M
1992 - 5.54M
1990 - 5.84M

The key day is 1996, not because this is the year when the fewest were struck, but rather because by report a alarge number of them went overseas. As a result far fewer 1996 coins are seen in the U.S.

Many dealers offer the other listed dates at bullion prices, along with all non-listed dates. However some dealers who sell to collectors offer the above dates (less 1996) at a premium $2 to $5 dollars above what they ask for non-listed dates, because seemingly fewer of the listed date coins are available.