Gold proof coins have been a favorite among collectors in the coin collecting circles. There unblemished, pristine quality, intricate designs, and rarity has collectors sourcing shops and dealers to complete collections. The Invention, manufacturing process, and grading of the coins, is a endlessly intriguing subject and often common knowledge among collectors.

The creation of gold proof coins takes place in the early years of the 20th century. The French had invented a technique using sandblasting of the dies, to create the proofed coins with a semi-rough or Matte surface. The design of these new coins became popular throughout Europe. The proofed coins were historically created for checking the dies. As the proofed coins became more popular, especially in the U.S., they began to strike them in greater numbers.

A specially polished and treated die is required in the production of a gold proof coin. A powerful force is applied to two dies, one with a front design and the other with a back design to produce the images on the coin. Acid treated images on the die highlight the high points of the coin and the fore ground is stuck with polish to the surfaces of the die. A frosted effect is seen with a mirror finish on the background. Cameo is the contrast between the two surfaces.

You will find that proofed coins will be struck twice by the dies, it used to be only one time back years ago. At times it might even require three dies to be struck, this will give the gold proof coins a finer and much crisper detail. Of course those details are what make gold proof coins so appealing to those collectors around the world. All you have to do in order to compare the non-proofed coin to a proofed coin is to put them side by side. You will easily be able to see how much better the detail is on the proofed coin.

The collections of proof coins can vary between investors and collectors. However, the scale which they use to judge uncirculated and proof coins are the same. Proof coins are either labeled a "PR" or "PF" to stand for proof. There is a grading system which the coins are graded upon ranges from PF 60 to PF 70, with PF 60 more on the common end and PF 70 being very rare for older coins. The fact that many coins having some kind of wear and tear is sometimes inevitable. So PF 50 and below designate those proof coins that may possibly have blemishes from improper care.

The sheer beauty, uniqueness, and quality of gold proof coins has been captivating hobbyist for many years and will likely continue so, well into the future. The invention, production and grading scales are wonderful subjects in themselves and help appreciate the coins even more. Collecting these rare pieces of history is not only rewarding, but a hobby that lest you delve into parts of history yourself.