I have the chance to pick up this set for about $500 is that a good deal? http://www.ebay.com/itm/2004-YEAR-O...181046527707?pt=AU_Coins2&hash=item2a2736c6db
Its a fair price. It certainly is not a steal at $500. The bullion monkey goes for around $65. The proof goes for over $100. The gilded goes for around $100. The colored goes for around $60. It's the type of set you buy today to add to your collection cause it's a cool piece to have. It is rare & also an awesome design/series. It's not the type of set you buy thinking your going to flip for a nice profit anytime soon though.
So if you buy the coins individually for $330 you're basically paying $170 extra for the box and certificates.
Personally I would buy them individually & either buy or make my own holder for them. You would definitely save some money taking that route.
That's what I do. I buy them individually. Almost completed the bullion part. Now on to the colored ones. Then gilded followed by prooof. Then I get four of those (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/380554050292?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649) and will be a happy camper!