Is a Proof Coin Worth More Than an Uncirculated Coin?

Question: Is a proof coin worth more than an uncirculated coin?

My Answer: Not necessarily. I would say that probably a majority of the time the proof coin would be worth more than an uncirculated, or Mint State, coin of the same type.

But there are many instances when this is not the case. When determining the value of a coin, there are many things to take into consideration:

• Condition of the coin - this is probably the most important consideration, also refered to as the grade of the coin.


• Rarity - How many of each (proof and Mint state) were made, and how many have survived over time.


• How well it was originally struck - Strike refers to the sharpness of design details. For example, a sharp or strong strike will show all of the details struck very sharply, but a weak strike will show details lightly.


• How well it has been preserved - a proof coin that has seen a rough life would most likely not be worth as much as a higher grade Mint State coin of the same type.

Keep in mind that Proof refers to the method of manufacture and is not a condition.

So, for one type of coin the answer might be that the proof coin is worth more than the uncirculated coin. But for another type of coin the opposite might be true.

And the differences could also happen between two years of the same type coin. For instance, one year the proof coin for that type of coin might be worth more than the Mint State coin and the very next year the uncirculated coin might be worth more.

Check out Coin Grading, How to Grade Coins, and the Coin Grading Scale to learn more.