Gold Proof Coins, a Hallmark For Some Collectors

Gold proof coins are early samples of a particular issue of a specific coin. These are generally minted to test the dies and also for copies to keep in the archives. Since the popularity of these coins has grown, many more are often struck for each type of coin especially for coin collectors.

Many different countries issue gold proof coins to collectors around the world. When it comes time to make proofs, there is a special process that occurs. First, the dies will be polished, which gives the proof coins a sharper rim and more distinguished design that circulated coins. Then, the proof dies are occasionally treated with chemicals to give a frosted look to a certain part of the coin.

This frosted treatment is new, and is done merely for the sake of collecting, as the coins will appear to be more aesthetically pleasing to collectors. There have been many other processes used over the years to achieve this effect, as well as the mirrored effect of the polished areas, including sand blasting the dies and creating matte proofs. Some coins from the 1800s even looked scratched as a result of this process. Proof coins are usually double, and even triple, struck to ensure that the image is fully embedded into the coin.

Matte gold proof coins were developed in France in the early 20th century, through a process of sandblasting the dies that the coins were made from. This design was very popular in Europe, and was used by the Philadelphia Mint for various coin series made of other metals. Finding these coins today proves to be challenging for any collector, as they are still some of the most rare gold coins in existence and very valuable. The Lincoln cent was struck this way from 1909 to 1916, creating more than 15,000 proof coins. Today, they are very rare and have tarnished into a variety of colors through the years. Buffalo Nickels and Peace Silver Dollars were also produced in the U.S. with a matte finish, but are much rarer than the Lincoln cents.

Although gold proof coins are struck in most occasions today for collectors, they were used historically for records purposes in most cases. There are many different proof coins available for collectors, including a variety of designs from countries around the world. Today, these coins are generally minted to mark special occasions and to commemorate historic events. The value of these coins varies greatly, depending on what you are looking for. Generally speaking, older coins and ones that have fewer copies are going to be worth more because of their rare and historic nature.

Source by Alan LeStourgeon

Gold Proof Coins, a Hallmark For Some Collectors