Proof or Uncirculated US COIN, which is worth more? Which would you prefer to collect?

Question

I'm a beginner. Please advise.

Thank you for your time.

Answer 1

Proof coins are worth more; they are often plated with silver.  Even though uncirculated coins have never been used, they often bump and rub into each other in the coin rolls, leaving small marks that degrade the coins.

Answer 2

It depends upon whether you are collecting for fun or are in it for investment purposes. For the bullion investors looking for a hedge against inflation, uncirculated silver and gold coins like the American Silver Eagle or Canadian Maple Leaf are good ideas. I don't know many bullion investors that get into the Proofs, simply because they are a higher premium over spot price. Proofs are pretty to look at, while bullion seekers grab the uncirculated stuff.

Graded coins are something to stay away from as a beginner and these are usually high value items anyway. Hope this helps.

Take a look at eBay. Great place to find some real deals. I added a link below that will give you an idea of some of the coins you should look for both in gold and silver.

Answer 3

To collect US coins with an eye toward investment, you can have an equally profitable experience with both proof coins and non-proof coins. (Non-proofs are also known as "business strikes".)

Here are some pros and cons of each:

Proof Coins (pro)

They are made in limited quantities for collectors. They are mad more carefully, on hydraulic presses at slower speed. They are nearly always fully struck - all elements of the design are sharp and clear. Surfaces of modern proofs are generally mirror-like in their brilliance.

Proof Coins (con)

Proofs are sold at a premium. You can't just go to your bank and get them at face value.

Business Strikes (pro)

You can get them from your change at face value. Mint state examples of the older coins will often be rarer than the proofs of the same coin.

Circulated coins are less expensive, therefore easier to collect when you are just getting started in the hobby.

Business Strikes (con)

With business strikes it is more important that you learn how to grade coins. ActualIy I don't really think this is a "con". Learning to grade coins is something you should begin learning about now. Here's a link that explains this further:  http://www.valuable-coin-stories.com/coi...