Why was the term "Proof" adopted for that type of coin?

hedgehog847

I'm just curious. Probably a dumb question.

solid

Just a guess, but perhaps it was first used to describe trial strikes or test pieces?

When you get something printed, they usually do a "proof", which is used to get
the final ok from the customer before the full order is run.

Ken

19Lyds

PerryHall

A "Proof" coin is proof that the mint could strike nice coins if they really tried.

DrWho

methinks it comes from 'proving the die'.

ChangeIsGood

When something is written and before printing, or a test impression of an engraving, etching, or lithograph, it is called a proof. I am sure they want the test piece to be perfect before it goes into mass production. So I don't think it was much of a stretch to use the term for coins where all pieces are more or less ( in theory ), proof or perfect.

cladking

<< <i>methinks it comes from 'proving the die'. >>



Yes. As in "to test the quality of".

Prethen

You could also say it's a "proof of concept". A proof is the epitome of strike and design of any given coin.

BTW....not a dumb question...keep 'em coming.

carl

Per Webster:
"Proof: A trial impression taken from an engraved plate, stone, or block; also, a perfect impression from such a plate, etc., when finished, and usually before the titile or inscription has been added".
Also, per Webster PROOF is the standard of strength of alcoholic liquors which could indicate that the USMint personal have a few before making those coins so they just call them what they are drinking.

hedgehog847

Also, per Webster PROOF is the standard of strength of alcoholic liquors which could indicate that the USMint personal have a few before making those coins so they just call them what they are drinking.

relayer

Good question - and good answers

Conder101

The term proof does come from the printing trade as explained earlier in the thread. It was adopted to describe the coins we now call proofs sometime in the 1860's. Before that time such pieces were called Master Coins.

BAJJERFAN

Rifles are tested with special high pressure loads known as "proof" loads. In the past these loads were assembled in nickel plated cases and thus easy to differentiate from normal brass cased ammo. Now that nickel plated cases are commonly available I don't know how one would know if he accidentally got one of those "proof" loads.