The differences between proof and mint state coins also referred to un-circulating are not obvious. This is due to a common thought people have that the terms refer to a grade system. In the real sense, the terms refer to the manufacturing process. However, there are various factors that can be used to tell apart the difference between proof and mint state coins.
Appearance is one of the factors. A proof has a shiny mirror-like finishing on its flat surface and a matte finishing on the raised parts. These are the finest type of coinages produced by the mint in terms of quality, detail and care. The non-circulating on the other hand have a frosty finish. The difference between these non-circulating and those that are in circulation is that they have enhancements such as cleaning after stamping unlike the circulating coins.
Another difference occurs in the process of manufacture. In manufacture of proofs, they are struck by use of a production process that is unique. Special dies which are polished are used to mark the blanks on the front and the back. They then get checked for blemishes and then struck several times and mostly slowly using the striking machine to achieve high level of detail. Handling is usually careful, mostly by use of gloved hands. They are then packaged in a special container to protect them from dirt and moisture. On the other hand, non-circulating are ordinary and no special processes are carried out during manufacture.
The quantity of production is also purposed to differentiate them. Mints states are produced in masses by a machine and heaped, sorted then transported to banks. They can be made by more than one mint. Proofs on the other hand are produced by one or just a few mints and are not mass produced.
The packaging for both types is also different. Protective plastic cases house most modern proofs. The non-circulating before 2007 however were packaged in cellophane. There is also a difference in how much money they fetch. Proofs are more expensive since they take much more time, cost and attention to produce.
There are various reasons to purchase them. Proofs are bought as a way of investment or to preserve history or sometimes as a hobby. When the coins are produced in small numbers, they are rare and hence become more attractive to a probable collector. They can also serve as presents or in remembrance of a major event such as World War or the reign of a king or president.
The non-circulating may have flaws caused during production process. The proofs however are perfect. Their grading system also varies from that of non-circulating. They are graded using a PR or PF sign. Most have a PR of between 60 and 70 with PR 70 being rare almost non-existent. The non-circulating are graded by the sign MS.
Coinages provide a history and heritage. Whether buying for investment or collecting, the most recent sets are available from the U. S Mints. The older ones can be purchased from dealers or collectors.
Appearance is one of the factors. A proof has a shiny mirror-like finishing on its flat surface and a matte finishing on the raised parts. These are the finest type of coinages produced by the mint in terms of quality, detail and care. The non-circulating on the other hand have a frosty finish. The difference between these non-circulating and those that are in circulation is that they have enhancements such as cleaning after stamping unlike the circulating coins.
Another difference occurs in the process of manufacture. In manufacture of proofs, they are struck by use of a production process that is unique. Special dies which are polished are used to mark the blanks on the front and the back. They then get checked for blemishes and then struck several times and mostly slowly using the striking machine to achieve high level of detail. Handling is usually careful, mostly by use of gloved hands. They are then packaged in a special container to protect them from dirt and moisture. On the other hand, non-circulating are ordinary and no special processes are carried out during manufacture.
The quantity of production is also purposed to differentiate them. Mints states are produced in masses by a machine and heaped, sorted then transported to banks. They can be made by more than one mint. Proofs on the other hand are produced by one or just a few mints and are not mass produced.
The packaging for both types is also different. Protective plastic cases house most modern proofs. The non-circulating before 2007 however were packaged in cellophane. There is also a difference in how much money they fetch. Proofs are more expensive since they take much more time, cost and attention to produce.
There are various reasons to purchase them. Proofs are bought as a way of investment or to preserve history or sometimes as a hobby. When the coins are produced in small numbers, they are rare and hence become more attractive to a probable collector. They can also serve as presents or in remembrance of a major event such as World War or the reign of a king or president.
The non-circulating may have flaws caused during production process. The proofs however are perfect. Their grading system also varies from that of non-circulating. They are graded using a PR or PF sign. Most have a PR of between 60 and 70 with PR 70 being rare almost non-existent. The non-circulating are graded by the sign MS.
Coinages provide a history and heritage. Whether buying for investment or collecting, the most recent sets are available from the U. S Mints. The older ones can be purchased from dealers or collectors.
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