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Proof coins are the highest quality of coin a mint produces. These coins are attributed a
much higher value than the metal itself due to their status as a commemorative coin.
Proof coins are struck using hand-finished dies. This means an expert will etch into the
metal die to produce a mirror image imprint, ready for a machine to stamp a blank coin
disc. The decision to hand-finish the dies means that there will be no imperfections
before a coin is produced.
The process for production sees a high-quality proof blank placed into a coin press. This
is done by hand. The coin is then struck six times, at the lowest speed and lowest pressure
of the three coin types. This avoids any blemishes, but for additional peace of mind the
operator will also clean the dies before and after usage with air, cleaning off any dust or
other particles.
This meticulous process means that it takes an hour to strike 50 proof coins – a stark
contrast with the 3,000 per hour rate for bullion silver coins – and the coin design dies
are sharpened and polished after every few hundred strikes.
The Royal Mint will only issue a small mintage of proof coins of each
type per year.