This may sound like a dumb question, so I appologige in advance. But, how can one tell the difference between a proof thats been in circulation and an ordinary made for circulation coin? See, I was looking through some change the other day and a lincoln cent stuck out for some reason. It was a 1973 S. It seemed to have more defined rims than an average lincoln from the time, and a nicer toning. When I looked in my Red Book, I saw there were proofs made with the 73S mintmark, as well as circulating coins. How can I tell which it is? I understand that a proof that circulated has lost any additional value that being a proof may have entitled it, but I'm curious anyhow. Thanks. Guy~
in my estimation i would think that a proof would have an excellent strike with sharp details and a wire like rim and mirror like fields,depending how much it circulated. there me be some markers to look for also but i'm not sure. hth grizz
You can tell a coin in VF or higher condition to be a possible proof by A very sharp stike, or razor rims, or (if with milling) razor milling. If in AUNC or MS it will have mirror fields.
