If a proof coin is touched by human hands, is it still considered a proof coin?

Question

I've been a collector for over ten years and yet this question has always puzzled me. Does anyone know?

Answer 1

I think so, it just loses its value. Proof coins are struck at least twice under high pressure creating designs that seem to float above the mirror-like backgrounds. It is a time consuming process during which the coins are never touched by an ungloved hand or another coin. Proof sets are made in strictly limited editions, the numbers of which may vary from year to year.

Proof coins, which are especially made for collectors, are handstruck from polished metal blanks, or planchets, and dies and have a mirrorlike finish. Since the condition of a coin has a great bearing on its value, the wise collector will take pains to protect his coins against wear or damage. The surfaces should never be touched. In picking up a coin, the edges should be held between the thumb and forefinger.

Answer 2

Proof Coin:
A newly minted proof coin is also Un-circulated, however it is the way it is made that causes a difference in appearance and qualifies it as a "proof". To understand this, let's look at how coins are made. Coins are produced when two dies strike a blank piece of metal with tremendous force. One die is engraved with the front (obverse) design for the coin. The other die has the back (reverse) coin design on it.

Answer 3

Grading services would only consider uncirculated coins made using the "proof" method as proofs. They don't have to be perfect as uncirculated coins may have small defects, carbon spots, patchy uneven patina, even small scratches. If the coin made by the proof method does not qualify as uncirculated, it may be graded as proof-like at best. Touching the surface of the proof coin will lower it's grade, but not necessarily prevent it from being graded as proof. Check out NGC, PCGS or ANACS sites for more info.

Answer 4

As far as a proof goes, if I understand correctly, proof refers to the type of cast, not the coin's condition. A proof is usually like a test casting or minting of a coin. Hope this helps!

Answer 5

Proof is the method used to make the coin.

Proof with fingerprints are still proof just a lower grade.
PF-70 is perfect.
PF-65 is gem.
PF-60 is average and may have marks or be dull.

Answer 6

It is not Proof when human hands have touched it. Our hands have secretions...sweat, and oils that affect the purity of the proof coin, which is why they are in those cases they sell.

Answer 7

I'm not 100% sure, but I think proof has to do with the way it was made, not the quality of it.

I believe that it may reduce the quality, but it is still considered a proof.

Answer 8

No, because the oils will damage it over time.