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This post is written in response to requests asking us to explain what The Perth Mint means
by ‘specimen’.
We use three classifications to describe our
precious metal coins – proof, bullion or specimen.
Proof Coins
The very highest quality coins produced by The Perth
Mint feature a proof finish. The coin table (background) is highly-polished
and mirror-like.
Traditionally, design elements are delicately
frosted. However, as an alternative, we colour some
or all design elements on many of our proof quality releases.
Because of the time and skill involved in creating
proof quality coins, this finish is reserved for our most limited,
highly-prized numismatic (collectable) issues.
Bullion Coins
Bullion coins are made for the purpose of investing
in precious metals. They are mass produced to keep the price as close to
‘spot’ as possible. As a result, the finish on many bullion coins
issued worldwide is uniform with no distinctively polished or frosted areas.
The Perth Mint takes a different approach. Our
bullion coins feature a frosted table and a shiny design (the opposite way
round to proof issues). The quality of each strike means that our bullion
coins are sometimes referred to as “reverse proofs”. Indeed, we
would claim they have the best quality bullion finish in the world.
(Visit The Perth Mint Bullion website.)
Specimen Coins
A Perth Mint specimen coin is a limited collectable
release.
Akin to a bullion coin in so far as it has a frosted
table, it also features one or more special numismatic treatments –
including a coloured design, gilded design or a gemstone
insert.
Specimen is also the classification we use for
standard bullion coins released in limited presentation packaging for
collectors.
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