Well, since the definition of a Proof is a method of manufacture - not who the coin is sold or presented to - and the method of manufacture is defined as a coin struck with highly polished dies on polished planchets and struck more than once - they are real Proofs. But I do understand your point. It is a discussion that has been going on for centuries now. The very first Proof coins were struck in 1652 by the Royal Mint.
Judging by the photo at the top of this thread... by 1883 they were crankin' out some really nice ones !
No doubt, 900! Thanks for the correction/clarification, GDJMSP. Rather than debate the meaning of the word proof, let's just agree to disagree.... Without question, you are right though in that I should have used words like "Although it is an issue hotly debated for a long time, I believe..." rather than "To be truthful" to be more clear and less authoritative. As you said, it has been discussed for a long time before us, and likely will be an issue long after we're gone (hopefully a LONG time!). Have a nice evening everyone...Mike
Here is mine. Not as nice, but mirrors well and for the price I paid I am happy with it. http://xs322.xs.to/xs322/07492/DSC_3321.JPG
And it wasn't meant as a correction or a clarification Mike - you asked, I answered. Your points are well founded.
Considering how amazing his nickel looks, it sure was. He's a swell fella. It was actually bad form of me to post a pic of mine in his thread. For that, I apologize. I've been lacking a proper amount of sleep lately.
no no and no it wasnt a pity post no 2 coins are the same and for someone who loves the hoby you have to be able to admire coins other than your own. You are free to post pics on my thread anytime. my threads are successful coz you guys participate and posting pics is a way of participating
Nice coin! Really sharp - it would fit nicely with these two. And hey rotobeast you were suppose to ship me that '83. I still haven't forgotten. : ) Yours is certainly nicer than mine the 80 is a 65 and the 79 is a 63. The reverse of the 80 is actually nicer than the picture looks. The 79 is a little flat for a proof. I also have a 1879/8, but I posted that sometime earlier. I don't think I have posted these two before. What is really cool about the 79 is you can see doubling around the obverse and the reverse. I do know some of the proofs are cheaper than some of the MS grades.