I was just curious as to whether or not there were any key diagnostics to look for in determining if a Indian Head quarter eagle was a proof or not. Aside from the obvious difference in original appearance, that is. For example, how could one tell the difference in this series from a proof and a circulation strike if the proof had been in circulation? Guy~
Diagnostics, other than the usual differences between Proofs and business strikes, would depend on the specific coin. So if you can provide a specific date/mint I'll be happy to look it up for you. But any Proof, even if circulated, should still have enough easily seen differences for pretty much anybody to tell them from business strikes. Mirrored fields inside protected areas would be one.
You do realize that all Indian Head proof $2.5s were matte proofs, right ? There are none brilliant. The difference is like night and day, even more so than brilliant proof vs business strike.
I didn't know that. But, the surface finish won't help me on this one anyways, as it's circulated. I was hoping there were design details that might differ from circulation strikes that would give it away as a proof. I tried taking pics, but they didn't turn out well enough to bother posting. I doubt what I have is proof, but it's always nice to be sure. Guy~
