Business Strike vs. Proof question.

Chazpear

Is there a resource on the net that either describes or explains the differences between 19th century business strikes and proofs? I have looked at a few coins (IHC, SLD, SLQ, SLH), in the holders they may say MS or PF, but in looking at each example I just don’t see any distinguishing differences. Part of it is I just don’t know what to look for, but finding the diagnostics seems to be just as difficult. Thank You.

Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

coinguy1

Chazpear, while in some cases it can be difficult to distinguish a business strike from a Proof, it is often quite easy.

The first difference to look for is - generally speaking, a Proof coin will exhibit brilliant mirror-like/reflective surfaces. You can literally see a reflection, like in a mirror.

There are other differences, such as Proof coins usually being better struck too.

Edited to add - the reflectivity of Proof coins does not always translate well in on-line images, so it is best to make comparisons in person, when possible.

Wolf359

Here

cladking

While not fool proof, a quick way to tell them apart is to look at the rims; proofs
will have nice square rims.

Chazpear

Great information! Thanks to the 3 of you.

I remember now that it was mentioned about the sharper/square rims on the Proofs.

And I'm not sure why I didn't think about looking at grading sites. Makes sense though.

Most of the coins that I've looked at so far, is real tough to see the mirror surfaces, whether it is from toning or in some cases wear. And the ones I have been looking at are for the most part are in hand. However, some of the exaples that I have used have been images on-line, which just confuses the issue further.

Again Thanks!!