Originally Posted by
radonc1
Why would anyone pay a premium for what is in essence coin of the realm?
This isn't numismatic coins worth collecting such as proof sets (which are available for a price). This is plain old change, and who is going to want to have 250 dollar coins and pay a premium for them so that you can circulate this specific currency that has in essence been rejected by the population.
Maybe the government thinks they see a way to monetize the MS craze
I think the main explanation is convenience, for those that want/need uncirculated coins, of all denominations (not just $1). One example: those omnipresent ads by Littleton, offering various sets/collections. Or maybe some merchant that likes to give out a particular state or park coin as change. I assume USM wouldn't offer the service unless there was at least some market demand.