It is difficult to tell apart proof from state mint coins commonly referred to as non-circulating. This occurs due to a misconception that the terms refer to a system employed in grading. They however infer to certain methods used in manufacturing process. There are certain factors used to to know the difference between proof and mint state coins.

Appearance is one of these factors. Proofs have a shiny surface which is mirror like on the flat surface. The raised parts have a matte finishing. Based on detail, attention and quality, these are the finest coin types produced by a mint. The non-circulating have a finishing that is frosty and has a luster like appearance. The difference between non-circulating and those in circulation is the enhancements found in the mint states. These enhancements include after-stamp cleaning.

Another difference occurs in the process of manufacture. In manufacture of proofs, they are struck by use of a production process that is unique. Special dies which are polished are used to mark the blanks on the front and the back. They then get checked for blemishes and then struck several times and mostly slowly using the striking machine to achieve high level of detail. Handling is usually careful, mostly by use of gloved hands. They are then packaged in a special container to protect them from dirt and moisture. On the other hand, non-circulating are ordinary and no special processes are carried out during manufacture.

The numbers at which the production occurs is a way used to tell them apart. The un-circulating are manufactured in very large numbers and then heaped, arranged and then shipped to various banks. They are usually manufactured by one or more mints. Proofs however are made by one or select few mints and are not made in large numbers.

The packaging for both types is also different. Protective plastic cases house most modern proofs. The non-circulating before 2007 however were packaged in cellophane. There is also a difference in how much money they fetch. Proofs are more expensive since they take much more time, cost and attention to produce.

There are varied reasons for purchase. Investing, historical archiving and as a hobby are some of the reasons to buy the proofs. Lower coin population result to its rarity and hence increased desirability to a collector. They can also serve as gifts or presents and are also used to remember certain events like World War or a hero.

Lastly, the level of perfection is another factor used to tell them apart. Proofs exhibit perfection. On the other hand, non-circulating may have blemishes from the manufacturing process. Coins are graded based on the level of perfection. The system used for proofs is designated PR or PF. Most of these range from PR 60 to PR 70 with the former being rare almost non-existent. Mint states are graded using MS.

Coins are part of a people history and culture. Whichever the reason you may have for buying them, ensure that you get the most recent sets from a mint. The older sets can be purchased from a dealer or a collector.