They’re manufactured exactly like other proofs with two exceptions. When you add in the bold, sharp details on a proof, the effect is quite spectacular. When you look at any modern proof coin, you’ll notice the foreground and background areas sharply contrast. In fact, when you stand back and look at a proof, you’ll see your reflection on its surface. The background surface or field areas of proof coins are highly-polished, shiny and mirror-like. In fact, another designation of "Ultra" cameo has been added to the marketing descriptive mix and is often used to describe the very best of today’s proof coins. Mints of today can pretty much create a deep cameo coin at will and through the mintage cycle of a proof.
(Note, sometimes you’ll see CA used instead of CAM and DC for DCAM.) The latter, obviously, being the more attractive coin. It’s for this reason you’ll sometimes see descriptive designations of "CAM" or "DCAM" with certain proofs in addition to their official graded designation (described below).ĬAM stands for cameo while DCAM stands for deep cameo.
#PROOF COINAGE FULL#
Prior to technological advancements in the later 70’s, it wasn’t so common to see the full cameo effect, if there was one at all, on a proof. This effect is obtained by creating a special frosted, matte finish. The foreground or portrait area of a modern proof coin is often described as having a "cameo" effect. Now, let’s get into some proof coin anatomy. They are not coins intended for general circulation. Foremost, proof coins are made for collectors, special occasions or other numismatic purposes. We glazed over the general description of proofs, but let’s get more specific. What, why and how these coins are made are just a few things we’ll discuss. In terms of output, a proof is the absolute highest quality coin a mint can produce.
These specialty made coins are so finely sculptured that extreme details are noticeable.Ī proof coin’s exceptional detail combined with its aesthetic appeal make them extremely popular with collectors. Coins of proof quality have no equal in sharpness or brilliance.