Real People. Real Experiences. Real Helpful.
Typically, Proof Sets contain one example of the cent, nickel, dime, quarter, and half dollar produced in a given year — in the finest quality. Proof coins are specially treated and struck twice in order to create an exceptional finish (a frosted, raised foreground and a shiny, mirror-like background). Proof coins have been made since as early as 1821 — however, they have only been offered in sets since 1950. Proof versions of a few recent commemorative coins (like American Eagle bullion coins and 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins) have been offered individually. Proof Sets are more expensive and more valuable than Mint Sets.
Proof coins represent the finest, the very best, that any U.S. Mint has to offer. You see, proof doesn’t refer to a particular grade. Rather, proof refers to the result when a coin is manufactured in a special way. Proof coins vary greatly from their business strike — regular, circulation-quality — counterparts and they take a different path in the Mint.
