I collect casino silver strikes and while at a convention of the CC>CC many years ago a representative from one of the minting companies told us that casino silver strikes are not minted as proof tokens. Many people and collectors refer to these tokens as a PROOF token. Yes, many of the silver centers do have a mirror finish in the fields and frosted high reliefs. BUT, by just looking at a token is there a way to tell it is not a "PROOF"? Just a note here can a PROFESSIONAL Grader tell the difference? And if a proof like token isn't manufactured as a Proof, wouldn't it be given an MS designation? I ask because of one of our SSSer's "centsles" grades them as a proof.
'Proof' describes the method of manufacture, not condition. I don't know about casino tokens but proof coins are made from planchets that have been polished and carefully handled. Proof dies are highly polished. Proof coins receive multiple strikes making the proof coins highly detailed.
Still awaiting answers too: 1. by just looking at a token is there a way to tell it is not a "PROOF"? 2. can a PROFESSIONAL Grader tell the difference? 3. If a proof like token isn't manufactured as a Proof, wouldn't it be given an MS designation?
Answer 1. Yes just by looking you or any should be able to determine whether this token or any other token has a proof like appearance. As stated already a proof is a process of manufacturing. Highly reflective fields and frosted objects would give the appearance of a proof style manufacturing process. Answer 2. Why the NNC, which by the way "I" would not consider a valid grader of anything including tokens, would give this token a coin grade is beyond me. Actually I'm sure is was for the money. Yes a professional token collector/seller/dealer could most definitely tell the difference. Answer 3. The token would most likely be given a "condition" like good, fair, fine, or mint. Mint State is a condition attributed the grading of a coin. IMHO you have a Mint condition proof type token. The slab, even though it protects/preserves the token is merely a display. And that's all I have to say about that.
