Need help with this- Proof or Not?

Scavenger

After I sent payment for this, I got an email informing me that it was not a proof coin as described because the proofs have frosted areas. I paid $113.80 for this coin under the impression that it was a proof which apparently it is not. If it's not a proof then it's only worth about $40.00. If someone can confirm one way or the other, I'll know what action to take.

Smittys

Ask the Darksider they would know better.

Rampage

What is it worth if it is a proof?

Scavenger

According to the Krause manual there were only 250 proofs minted in this type and they list their value at $450.00. This also leads me to believe that the coin is probably not a proof as listed.

Rampage

Looks to me that some bidders knew what the coin was, and other did not. Who sent you the email? The seller or another bidder? Does the seller have a return policy? Did you use paypal? You can file a claim if you did.

Scavenger

I paid with PayPal so as long as I return the coin with tracking, I'll probably get a refund. The thing is, if it really is a proof- I want to keep it. I believe the guy that emailed me was right - dont all proofs have frosted surfaces on some part of the coin?

MadMarty

<< <i>I paid with PayPal so as long as I return the coin with tracking, I'll probably get a refund. The thing is, if it really is a proof- I want to keep it. I believe the guy that emailed me was right - dont all proofs have frosted surfaces on some part of the coin? >>



Not always

Leiana

<< <i>I paid with PayPal so as long as I return the coin with tracking, I'll probably get a refund. The thing is, if it really is a proof- I want to keep it. I believe the guy that emailed me was right - dont all proofs have frosted surfaces on some part of the coin? >>



I have seen many American proofs that do not have frosted surfaces, or what is known as a 'cameo' effect. Of course, these were all proofs that predated the eighties. Proof coins are made from special dies that are repolished every few strikes to maintain the frosted look, in the US at least. This could be a 'proof' strike from unpolished dies, but I really can't say for sure.

-Amanda

jmj3esq

Many modern US Mint issued proofs do show frosted or CAM or DCAM appearances, but not all. I have many proofs from the '50's '60's and '70' that are not frosted at all. Just because there appears to be no "frost" or CAM or DCAM characteristics does not mean that the coin is not a proof. From the picture you provided it is impossible to tell.

Conder101

I don't think it is a proof. The rims, edges and lettering just don't look sharp and square. It does appear to have mirror finish surfaces but that is not a good indicator anymore. Many countries now issue their circulation coins with mirror finish and their MS commems almost always have mirrir fields.

Scavenger

Thank you all for the responses, I'll send it back and file a claim. The whole process will take a couple of weeks but that's better than paying for something that you dont want.

millennium

Plus the fact that you are holding it in your greasy dirty hands....not good.

michael

pl biz strike

Scavenger

Well actually that is the sellers picture, the coin hasnt arrived yet. But you're right, I wouldnt handle a proof like that either.