About Silver Proof Eagles

A proof silver eagle is basically a collector's version of the official U.S. bullion coin, and are usually only made available in the 1-oz. size. Proof silver eagles have a mirror-like finish on the coin background, with a frosted appearance on the raised portion. This contrast on the coin finish is known as "cameo". On some older coin issues, a cameo appearance can be rare. Coins notated "CAM", signify that the coin has a cameo appearance. A notaion of "DCAM" stands for deep cameo, and indicates the cameo appearance is strong and easily seen.

Proof coins are made using specially treated dies, and each coin is struck at least twice by the coin die. By striking it multiple times, the metal is forced into all parts of the die, producing a finely detailed image on the coin.

Because of the time, labor and cost of production in creating a proof coin, government mints will sell them at a higher price. Also, the actual production of proof coins is limited, meaning that in most instances a proof coin will be a more expensive product that a non-proof coin with the same production date. The end result is that usually, but not always, a proof coin of the same date will be more expensive than a non-proof uncirculated coin.

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