AZERBAIJAN SET 5 COPPER NICKEL COINS - 1 MANAT BAKU 2015 FIRST EUROPEAN GAMES BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED (BU) LIMITED ISSUE
Denomination - 1 manat
Alloy - Copper-Nicker
Weight - 28.28gr
Diameter - 38.61
ISSUE LIMIT – 1000
Capsule, COA, Case
Quality - BRILLIANT
What is Brilliant Uncirculated Coins?
Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) coins are coins that have never been used in circulation and are in mint condition. These coins are typically produced with special care and attention to detail, and they are handled and stored in a way that preserves their quality. Here are some key characteristics of Brilliant Uncirculated coins:
1. Mint State: BU coins are in mint state, meaning they have never been used for transactions or handled by the general public. They are often freshly struck by a mint and are free from the wear and tear that circulating coins typically experience.
2. Luster: BU coins exhibit a brilliant luster and a reflective, mirror-like surface. This luster is a result of the planchet (the blank piece of metal used to make the coin) being meticulously prepared and polished before the coin is struck.
3. Sharp Details: The design and inscriptions on BU coins are crisp and well-defined. The coin dies used to strike these coins are in excellent condition, which ensures that the details are sharp and clear.
4. No Visible Wear: Unlike circulated coins that may show signs of wear, such as scratches, nicks, and dulling of the design, BU coins should have no visible wear or damage.
5. Original Mint Packaging: In some cases, BU coins are sold in their original mint packaging, such as capsules, coin flips, or presentation folders. This packaging helps protect the coins and maintain their BU quality.
6. Grading: Numismatists and coin collectors often use a grading scale to assess the quality of BU coins. The Sheldon Scale, for example, rates coins from "Mint State 60" (least brilliant) to "Mint State 70" (perfect). Coins graded as "Mint State 60" or higher are generally considered BU.
7. Collector Value: BU coins are often sought after by coin collectors and investors. Coins in exceptional BU condition can command higher prices than their circulated counterparts, especially for rare or historically significant coins.
It's important to note that the concept of "Brilliant Uncirculated" applies to a wide range of coins, from everyday currency to commemorative and collector's coins. Different mints and coin-grading organizations may have their own specific criteria for determining the BU grade of a coin. Collectors interested in BU coins should be aware of these standards and consider having their coins professionally graded to ensure their quality and value.