What coin surfaces do you like best and why? Mint State, Proof or Circulated?

SanctionII

I have always like pristine proof surfaces, particularly Cameo proofs [since, as some persons say, proofs represent the highest expression of the minter's art]. Impaired proof surfaces, including hairlines, marks, milkspots, carbon spots, etc. can ruin the appeal of these coins to a much greater degree than similar impairments on non proof coins.

However, Mint State surfaces and Circulated surfaces which have few or no impairments ["as made" for MS coins and "even wear" for Circulated coins], both toned and untoned, are very appealing to me.

Recently I have found myself liking non proof coins better than proof coins.

Something about a circulation strike coin that survives in a manner where it has great eye appeal [original skin, luster and/or attractive toning] just draws my attention.

How about you?

kryptonitecomics

I prefer a nice frosting MS coin with PL fields and neon colors...but hey that's just me

kimber45ACP

MS 90% of coins, proof on the other 10%.
For some reason, any abrasion on a proof surface makes me cringe. Don't know why.
I do like the proof Buffalo though.

OKbustchaser

My preference for my own collection is a nicely circulated (XF or so) coin with surfaces which I refer to as "original now". I like the fact that the coin actually served the purpose for which it was struck prior to being inserted into someone's collection.

As for proof coins, I just pure and simply don't like them...never have.

BillJones

If I can afford it, I like Proof coins, but they need to be high grade or have good eye appeal. Next is Mint State, and circulated if I can't afford it in Mint State.

The lowest grade coin I've purchased in a long time was a 1796, 16 star half dollar in Fine-15.

ambro51

AU. But the coins history in some cases can let me appreciate both high MS or honest heavy circulation wear. Very much a coin by coin thing with me.

mcarney1173

<< <i>My preference for my own collection is a nicely circulated (XF or so) coin with surfaces which I refer to as "original now". I like the fact that the coin actually served the purpose for which it was struck prior to being inserted into someone's collection.

As for proof coins, I just pure and simply don't like them...never have. >>



Yeah, XF used to be my favorite grade, but now I just like high-grade (64-70) stuff