Actually, Proof is a method of manufacturing high-quality coins for collectors. However, the amount of cameo contrast is graded. In order for a coin to qualify as Proof it must meet three basic criteria:.
Up until the mids, not all proof coins that were minted had a cameo contrast. The technology available to the mint at that time only allowed for the first 30 to 50 proof coins produced from a new set of dies to possess the deep cameo contrast.
As the dies continued to be used to produce proof coins, the frosted surfaces of the devices became more mirror-like with each proof coin struck. In the mids the United States Mint began experimenting with new technology that would enable every proof coin to receive a cameo contrast. After the proof die received its special treatment but before it was put into production, a coating was applied to the surface of the die that strengthened its surface and preserved the cameo contrast throughout its entire production run.
Some coins have an average contrast between the mirror-like surface of the field and a subdued frosted surface on its devices. Other proof coins have a dramatic contrast between the coin's highly mirrored field and the deep frosted relief on the devices. When the contrast between the field and the devices is so dramatic the coin is classified as a "deep cameo".
The production of coins involves metal dies striking metal planchets using several tons of force. Every time a coin is struck the die wears down and some of its detail worn away. As more and more proof coins are produced from a given set of dies the delicate frosted details on the dies start to wear off. This results in a less than dramatic cameo contrast. Most proof coins made for collectors have a cameo contrast where the fields of the coins have a mirror-like surface and the devices are frosted.
Some proof coins have the mirror and the frosted surfaces reversed. In other words, the devices are mirror-like and the field of the coin is frosted. The United States Mint made its first reverse proof coins and These were specifically made to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the American Eagle Bullion Coin program. Proof coins that have a cameo effect are highly prized by collectors. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. The major difference between the second and the third is the depth or "blackness" of the mirrors.
Also, the contrast must appear on both sides of the coin in order to receive the designation. Russ, NCNE. Great picture examples. Speaks words. I always refer to a woman's "cameo" broach that are popular. Where the central portrait usually a lady is in distince white ivory while the backround is usually another color, like red or green. Anyway if you know what I am talking about it is the same for proof coins.
I assume this is where they got the term. Cameo or Deep cameo is a term given to a proof coin that exhibits a black and white contrast between the fields low portion of coin and the devices raised portion of the coin, usually the bust and letters The black is the fields and the white are the devices.
This is caused by an etching of the dies in an acid bath, the fields of the dies were then polish with a diamond compound to nearly flawless mirror like perfection. Since the devices of the coin are in sharp recess they did not have their surfaces polished and left with an etching that created the white frost like appearance. Let me reword my question.
Does any new coin produced have the potential to be a Cameo or Deep Cameo or does the mint purposely create Cameos and Deep Cameos? The mint has purposely produced cameo and deep cameo proof coins since the mid '70's.
Nowadays, pretty much every proof set is Deep Cameo. Justin, modern proof coins are intended to be cameo, or deep cameo depending on your luck when purchasing. Mint set coins, and regular circulation strikes are not. Developing theory is what we are meant to do as academic researchers and it sets us apart from practitioners and consultants.
Fingers were too fast, sorry about the double enterdre. Russ, Very nice examples and pictures! Well Done! Thanks everybody. Now it is perfectly clear. Too bad PCGS doesn't use the payola to buy glasses for the graders! Tim, You're among friends, no need to soft peddle it. Tell us how you really feel. November 9, PM. As far as Gold Eagles why are most non-Cameo yet some are? Just the luck of the draw? They are created on purpose - the fields of the dies were polished and the devices were sandblasted or treated with acid.
DCAM and Ultra Cameo coins are differentiated by two qualities -- the mirror-like qualities of the fields and the degree of the frostiness of the devices.
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