From the United States Mint site: Mission The primary mission of the United States Mint is to produce an adequate volume of circulating coinage for the nation to conduct its trade and commerce. In recent history circulating coin production has varied between 11 billion and 20 billion coins annually. In addition to producing coins, the United States Mint has other responsibilities, including the following: Distributing U.S. coins to the Federal Reserve banks and branches. Maintaining physical custody and protection of the Nation's $100 billion of U.S. gold and silver assets. Producing proof and uncirculated coins, commemorative coins, and medals for sale to the general public. Manufacturing and selling platinum, gold, and silver bullion coins. Overseeing of production facilities in Denver, Philadelphia, San Francisco and West Point, as well as the U.S. Bullion Depository at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Receiving, redeeming, and processing mutilated coins. Sorry if your proofs are late but they're just a sideline!
When the head of the US Mint is evaluated, this little sideline is probably the difference between an excellent job and a poor job for purposes of profitability. Of course the main job must pass the quality standards, but the sideline is what makes the Mint either shine or tarnish.
