Is a used proof coin with scratches better than a perfect condition uncirculated coin?

As the title states.
Used proof coin - probably around PF 60. Perfect uncirculated - MS 70

 

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is a dog better than a cat?

The reason I ask is because the answer is the same. They are two different animals entirely.

Proof cons are proof coins, Circulation strikes are circulation strikes and to illustrate check out the prices on proof 1909 Lincoln Cents vs high end uncirculated ones, then check proof 1950 Half Dollars vs high end uncirculated ones.

and the answers will be different each series you check

 

It seems to me proofs are much more valuable than uncirculated regardless of condition.........

 

I see a need in you for some learning, young man.

 

Yeah, Im new at this...... but I really want help as I am deciding some coins to buy............. and it seems to me proof really makes a difference to the value, even if it has a low grade.

 

The value of a proof versus a circulation (business) strike coin really depends on the issue. In regards to the question from the OP, same holds true, but on very seldom occasions. I would personally prefer a MS coin over an impaired proof of its damaged, bit would pick the impaired proof if it has just circulation wear for some issues.

 

Thank you..... This is really helpful..... Just to clarify, this means that generally, an impaired proof with a grade of lets say PF60 would be worth more than MS 65 right?

 

I think that this summary completely misses the mark and the point.

 

here's the best advice that I can give:

1) find a series that you want to collect

2) study the series and learn how to grade them

3) make yourself familiar with the key dates and issues within the series

4) start buying coins

 

In many cases, yes, but again, it depends on the series/date. For example...

1889 half dollar...
MS-65 5500.00
PR-60 575.00 (Even the same grade level of PR-65 is only 3150.00)

 

Not exactly, it really depends on the coin and the relative rarity of the issues. You also need to keep in mind that while proof coins are generally produced in much smaller quantities to the business strike counterpart, there are far fewer collectors of proofs as well.

BTW, a PR-60 is not considered impaired, just heavily hairlined. A PR-58 or below would be considered impaired and will display some circulation wear. A proof is simply the means of manufacture and can grade as low as PR-02.

 

what?? makes no sense

 

Excuse me? What part doesn't really make sense to you?

 

PF-60? Wow, that is one chewed-up proof coin, regardless of the series.

Unless it's an "absolute rarity," most coins in PF-60 would not be very attractive or sought-after, would they? Unless you're one of those "worst of the worst" collectors.

 

Ok. I'm going to make 2 statements.
1. A low grade proof is worth less than a high end uncirculated in the majority of cases.
2. A low grade proof is worth more than a high end uncirculated in the majority of cases.

Only one of these statements can be correct. I'm trying to determine which statement is correct.

That's the point of my question. Making snide remarks doesn't really answer the question does it?
What you've said so far although somewhat helpful in other contexts, is not what I'm looking for.

 

A PF60 will be heavily hairlined, but can still be a good-looking coin. Some PF66s on the other hand can look like the dickens.

 

I'm not making snide remarks, but rather trying to point out to you that the answer is not that simple.

Neither of the above is true in every case, or even most cases. You're trying to compare apples and oranges and asking which is better. I say that they are both their own thing and you need to decide which you like first.

 

Not quite. This is not a case where only 1 statement can be correct. It is similar to this:

A heavy cat is better than a light dog.
A heavy cat is worse than a light dog.

You can't just say one of the above two is correct.

In coins, it really depends on the series, the date, the survival rate, etc.
There are plenty of cases where a low grade proof is really rare and others where the low grade unc is more rare than a proof. You just can't generalize with all coins.

 

Let me suggest this: The answer to your question could likely hinge on what issue you are considering.

Take some time and study price guides. I suggest you start your hunt with Coin World Values and the PCGS and NGC price guides.

I think you then will understand more clearly what people are trying to tell you.

 

Ok.

Well, there is an answer, if apples are worth more than oranges, then it is likely that in majority of cases a certain type of apple is worth more than a certain type of orange.
Like i said, both statements cannot be true at the same time.