South Africa 1963 20c proof coin found in US dealer's bin

I bought this 1963 South Africa coin from a US dealer's foreign coin bin a long time ago, sometime in the 1960's.

It has a proof or proof-like surface and I always wondered how it got into the dealer's bin with circulated coins.

It does have a few "bag mark" like scratches on it.

Anyone have a guess as to whether this is an authentic proof coin and/or how it got into circulation?

 

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It is often very difficult to tell the difference between Proof & Proof-like coins.
I know that is definitely the case with the South African 5/- & 50c. crowns.
If this 20c. is definitely a Proof,then that is a very lucky find,& a very nice British Commonwealth coin.

Aidan.

 

Do you still have that coin?

Aidan.

 

I do still have it but it is not for sale.

I also restored the image in the first January 2006 post.

 

Prooflike. There is just not enough frosting/cameo.

 

Prooflike. I don't see it as proof.

 

Gxseries,the Prooflike coins that are listed in Krause are the silver 5/- & 50c. crowns.No other values are listed.I reckon that is a Proof coin,but it is a very good one.

It is a pity that South African coins aren't as popular as they could be.I can guess it is because of the association with apartheid.

Aidan.