You will hear many different terms in the world of numismatics for the gold or silver you buy. Some of these terms include ‘Proof’ and ‘Uncirculated’. This is a short guide on the differences between these terms.

Proof

Proof is the highest standard of gold that can be used to strike a coin, giving it the sharpest and most defined image.

• Die used are finished by hand to remove any imperfections or blemishes.
• The blank is manually fed into the coin presses.
• The image is then struck a maximum six times, but with a lesser pressure and slower speed than any other finish to ensure that it is flawless.
• The dies must be cleaned by air after the coin is struck to ensure that there are no imperfections or marks.
• This process limits the number of proof coins that can be produced in one hour. Each proof die is limited to a few hundred strikes before it needs to be reworked or repolished.

It is for this reason that Proof coins tend to have a smaller mintage and are therefore more valuable to collectors. If you are buying coins for their long-term value or to be passed down in the family, this is important. For Coin Dealers UK, visit https://www.gmcoins.co.uk/

Uncirculated

The term brilliant uncirculated is used to describe the middle level of gold quality. Uncirculated coins are not struck or minted to the same standard as Proof Quality coins. They are also struck faster and are not circulated. These coins tend to have higher mintages, and are therefore less desirable on the second hand market than Proof coins. However, they don’t come with as much of a premium.

Bullion

This is the lowest grade of coin. Bullion can be produced in mass at a much faster rate and circulated. Bullion is a cheaper option because the value of metals in the long term lies in their weight. The word comes from an Anglo-Norman melting-house term, meaning a place where metal is refined. Before that, the French word bouillon was used, which means “boiling” in English.

If you’re new to coin collection and want to get the most out of your purchase, keep these terms in mind when you make the next purchase. They could have an impact on its long-term value. If you’re looking for something with exquisite detail and intricate design, choose proof. If you prefer something with a high mintage but still has good detail and complexity, choose brilliant uncirculated. If you don’t care about the detail or intricacy, and are only concerned with weight and not complexity, go for bullion.