Information To Help You Better Understand Proof Coins And Split Grades



Posted: Monday, April 06, 2009

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Coin collecting

When collecting coins you are going to find that there are numerous features and facets you need to be aware of.  To get the most out of your investment it is important you take the time to learn everything there is to know about your coins.  In this article we will look at proof coins and split grades a little closer.

Proof coins are coins that have never been placed in general circulation.  These coins have been minted using dies that have been specially polished and treated.  Coins that are minted for daily use are struck only once while proof coins are struck at least two times, if not more.  The purpose of this is to give them a detailed mirrored surface.  

When striking the coin more than once the metal is then forced into all of the crevices of the die.  The result of this is an extremely fine detail to the overall image of the coin.  Because of the extensive labor and detail put into proof coins, these are typically sold at a higher premium price.

While there are many differences between proof coins and coins that are not proofed, grading of proofs is similar to the grades used for uncirculated coins.  A coin with a lower grade is PR 60 while a rare or nonexistent coin is graded at PR 70.  Also similar to any other coin is the fact that proof coins can show wear and tear from cleaning or mishandling the coin.

Now that you know a little more about proof coins, let's look at split grades a little closer.  A split grade is given to a coin when there is no noticeable difference between the obverse and reverse sides.  These grades are given to coins and denoted with a "/" symbol.  

Typically you will find that these coins are graded by its worst side.  If there is one side that is significantly different, an intermediate value may be given.  It all depends on how noticeable of a difference the two sides are from each other.

There are many features and pieces of information that come with coin collecting.  You want to be aware of grading coins, how to identify the price of your collection, and the numerous risks that come with investing in coins.  This article highlighted proof coins and split grades so you can gain a better understanding of what these terms mean in the coin collecting industry.

About the author:
Tom Lindstrom is a coin collecting expert. For more great information on learning coin collecting values from the grade, be sure to visit http://www.coincollectingpennies.com

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