What is the difference between "mint" and "proof" coins?

Today, a mint state coin is one that has no wear. This is a grade of a coin and is usually followed by a number such as MS-64. MS stands for mint state. It is used on business strike coins that one finds in banks. Remember a mint state coin can have been in circulation and touched as long as there is no wear. Proof is not a grade of a coin but a type of a coin. A proof coin is made on a special blank with special dies. The coin is struck also more than once to bring out strong details. Proof coins are made for coin collectors and command a premium when bought from the mint or coin dealers. The value varies due to how many were struck, if not much the value usually goes up, to many the value goes down. Hope this answers your question

What is the difference between "mint" and "proof" coins?
A mint state coin is a regular business strike coin (meaning the planchet is struck only once by the dies) that shows no signs of circulation.



A proof coin is a specially made coin that is available for sale to collectors by the mint. The planchets and dies are usually highly polished creating a mirror like background to the design elements. During the minting process the planchets are struck at least twice by the dies creating a very detailed and sharp image on the coin. The coins then go through a special handling process by the mint employees so that they do not incur any scratches, nicks etc. In theory they are the epitome of the mints production efforts.



Both types of coins are sold in sets by the mint.
Reply:A mint coin describes the condition the coin is in. A proof coin is the way that the coin was made. Proof coins are stamped deeper, have a high polish, and are only available through the US mint. A mint coin can be found in pocket change.

elaine