There are a few differences between proof and uncirculated coins including the minting process, rarity, and price. Proof coins will have been struck twice by the same die, which gives them a higher quality with their mirror-like shine on the background and a matte finish on the foreground. Created solely for the purpose of collecting, proof coins are only minted in small numbers – increasing the rarity and price. Often hand polished and placed in special protective packaging to maintain their near perfect appearance, proof coin sets are a great option for collectors.
Uncirculated coin sets consist of coins struck only one time, similar to circulated coins. Due to only being struck once, uncirculated coins do not have the same shiny, mirror-like finish as proof coins but they are still shinier than traditional circulated coins. While proof coins are typically in perfect condition, uncirculated coins might have damage sustained during production from being hit by other coins. Also placed in special protective packaging, uncirculated coins are more rare than circulated coins but less rare than proof coins – generally making their price lower than proof coins. While less rare, uncirculated coins are also a great option for beginner or experienced coin collectors because they are still valuable at more affordable prices.
