Differentiating between proof and mint state coins is not easy. This is because people mistaken these terms for a grading system. They however refer to the process followed in production. There are various factors used to determine the difference between proof and mint state coins also known as non-circulating 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.
The process of manufacture is also different. In the production of proofs, they are struck using a unique engraving process. Polished special dies are employed to engrave the back and front sides of the blanks. They are then inspected for blemishes and struck severally and slowly by a machine to ensure that the detail is of high quality. They are handled with utmost care, mostly using hands that are gloved. They are then packaged in a unique container to keep away dirt and dust. The non-circulating however are not manufactured using any special process.
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.
Another difference is in how they are packaged. Most modern proof coinage are in sets that are contained in protective plastic cases whereas for most mints coins they are mostly packaged in cellophane i. E. Before 2007. The non-circulating and proofs are also different in the prices they fetch. Proofs fetch higher prices compared to the mints because the time, detail and production costs are also not as much.
The reason for purchase is also used to tell them apart. Proofs are purchased as an investment, for historical purposes or as a hobby. The lower the numbers, the rare the coin is and hence the more lucrative it is to a collector. They get also used as gifts, presents and keepsakes. They are also used to commemorate events like the World War or the era of a certain ruler or president.
Mint state coins are allowed to have blemishes arising probably due to the process of production. However proofs are perfect. The grading for the proof and non-circulating is also different. PR or PF is purposed to grade proofs with most of them having a grade value between PR 60 and PR 70. PR 70 is rare and almost nonexistent. MS is used to grade the non-circulating.
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.
The process of manufacture is also different. In the production of proofs, they are struck using a unique engraving process. Polished special dies are employed to engrave the back and front sides of the blanks. They are then inspected for blemishes and struck severally and slowly by a machine to ensure that the detail is of high quality. They are handled with utmost care, mostly using hands that are gloved. They are then packaged in a unique container to keep away dirt and dust. The non-circulating however are not manufactured using any special process.
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.
Another difference is in how they are packaged. Most modern proof coinage are in sets that are contained in protective plastic cases whereas for most mints coins they are mostly packaged in cellophane i. E. Before 2007. The non-circulating and proofs are also different in the prices they fetch. Proofs fetch higher prices compared to the mints because the time, detail and production costs are also not as much.
The reason for purchase is also used to tell them apart. Proofs are purchased as an investment, for historical purposes or as a hobby. The lower the numbers, the rare the coin is and hence the more lucrative it is to a collector. They get also used as gifts, presents and keepsakes. They are also used to commemorate events like the World War or the era of a certain ruler or president.
Mint state coins are allowed to have blemishes arising probably due to the process of production. However proofs are perfect. The grading for the proof and non-circulating is also different. PR or PF is purposed to grade proofs with most of them having a grade value between PR 60 and PR 70. PR 70 is rare and almost nonexistent. MS is used to grade the non-circulating.
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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