What Is a Proof in Coin Collecting?

Appearence

• Collectors buy proof coins primarily because of their distinctive appearance. Both the obverse and the reverse of a proof coin have undergone a special minting procedure that makes the coin reflective. Proof coins are sealed in special plastic packaging designed to protect the characteristic luster of these coins. There are no proof coins minted for circulation.

History

• The United States began creating proof sets in the early 1850s. During the rest of that century the United States minted ever more proof sets, until the Mint began making proof sets for every coin in circulation. The Mint began to produce proofs of every commemorative coin minted. In the 1990s the Mint began to produce proof sets in which the nickle, dime, quarter and half-dollar were minted in silver, as they were prior to 1964. Other countries mint proof coins, as well.

The Process

• Polishing and cleaning an excellent die (the object used to impart the image on a coin) is the first step in creating a proof coin. Then the blanks (the sheets of metal that eventually become coins) are polished and cleaned. Once both surfaces are polished, the coin is struck multiple times in order to produce a better-looking image. The proofs are then carefully handled and inspected before being set in their plastic container.

Packaging

• Proof coins generally come in air-proof plastic containers. These containers come in jewelry-type cardboard or plastic boxes that have the name of the set and the year printed on them. Keep the proof coins in their protective packaging, because even minimal handling can ruin the special surface of the coin. Proof sets almost always come with a certificate of authenticity.

Price

• Proof sets are released yearly and sold directly from the Mint. As of June 1, 2010, a 2009 United States Mint Proof set (a set of 18 coins) sells for $29.95 directly from the United States Mint. These sets usually gain value quickly. The 1999 United States Silver Proof set is worth several hundred dollars already. The silver sets cost more to buy, and gain value quicker than the standard proof sets.