Proof, Brilliant Uncirculated and Bullion

by Robert Wood – Coin appreciated ;-)
Collecting freshly minted coins might be both fun, interesting and profitable.

The three levels
If you have decided to start your collection of freshly minted silver- and/or gold coins you better know the differences between the three levels of striking standards. Proof, Brilliant Uncirculated and Bullion.

Proof
By definition, Proof is not a quality grading. It is a coin specially made with an exceptional high level of precision. The Mints are aiming at perfection at every stage of the production process. They are struck at least twice, which gives the coins a frosted foreground.The result: A flawless coin. Naturally, these coins might be more expensive than Brilliant Uncirculated and quite a lot more costly than Bullion. If you are set to collect proof-coins you will over time acquire a top notch collection. The value of the metal in Proof silver and gold coins will never? surpass the value of the coin as a collector item. Proofs come with a certificate of authenticity.

Brilliant Uncirculated
These coins are also produced for the collector marked and they are not intended for the investment marked. Brilliant Uncirculated coins are minted the same way as Bullion coins, but with a special process that produce a brilliant finish. They are also treated with exceptional care so that they do not get damaged by handling. Brilliant Uncirculated coins come with a certificate of authenticity.

Bullion
If you are aiming at becoming a bullion coin collector you get the joy of collecting well designed coins and the monetary backup of theprecious metal value. A bullion coin is an investment coin that is valued by most people for its weight and fitness of the metal. Bullion coins are not as sharp and perfected as the Proofs and Brilliants, but the pleasures of collecting are not necessarily dictated by the value of the objects. They do not come with a certificate of authenticity, but some bullion coins, such as the Canadian Silver and Gold Leaf got a security hologram.

The Noble Art of Coinage
There are several really good explanatory “How it is made” infotainments on YouTube. As a starter, I recommend the clip from The Royal Mint, UK The Royal Mint UK