Specimen coins

Hey guys, I just bought a 1996 and 1997 specimen dime from the coin shop. They look like this one on ebay

http://cgi.ebay.ca/1997-Gem-SPECIME...oryZ3386QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.ca/2004-P-Specimen-...oryZ3386QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQcmdZViewItem

I have to say they are gorgeous with the frosted background. So someone please explain specimen to me..lol

 

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Has anyone asked Twiggs if that is her in her avatar yet? Ok, I will. Twiggs, is that you in your avatar? Or are you really a guy with a very hot avatar? Just curious, I have held back long enough.

Sorry my post had nothing to do with your post. I have no clue as to the specimen question.

 

Specimen coins come from specimen sets. Higher quality than circulation coins, and a different finish.
I think for Canadian sets, 1996 and newer have a 'satin finish', and 1995 and older have a proof and/or proof-like finish. A 1997 specimen set is a nice one to get, it comes with the 'rare' Flying Loon.
A 1996 specimen set goes for under $50, and the 1997 specimen set goes for under $40

 

Oh Ive been asked many many times by PM

 

mmm ok but why are they 'specimen' and not proof or proof like?

I paid 1.00 each for them

 

Twiggs.
Please do not answer the question about your avatar I like not knowing is it or is it not.

 

Ditto! Keep the fantasy going.

 

These definitions are from the Royal Cdn Mint....
SPECIMEN
A brilliant image relief is struck against a matte or lined background in order to achieve maximum visual impact.* Specimen coins are struck up to two times on numismatic presses.
PROOF
Proof coins are those with a frosted relief over a brilliant field. Proof coins possess the highest-quality finish for a numismatic coin, and are usually struck twice to reveal the smallest details of the coin's design.
REVERSE PROOF
High-quality proof finish in reverse: brilliant, reflective details on a frosted or slightly matte field. These coins are individually passed through the presses. Multiple strikes are applied to achieve maximum detail and finish.
BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED
A brilliant image relief is struck on a brilliant background. Brilliant uncirculated coins are struck up to two times on numismatic presses.
UNCIRCULATED
Uncirculated coin refers to circulation coin that has never been circulated, as well as to a coin with a brilliant field over a brilliant relief.

 

So a specimen coin is like a reversed-proof?

 

They appear to be specimen coins

 

I'm familiar with specimens but only at the doctor's office.