Understanding Coin Conditions
Proof Coins
Proof Coins are coins which are minted in perfect condition. They are struck up to six times in a row to achieve a perfect mirror finish on the coin field.
Some traits are:
Limited mintage
Comes with a certificate
Usually in a display case
Coins have a mirror finish
Circulated Coins
Circulated coins/notes are currency used in transactions. Most of these items only keep their face value unless they are VERY OLD 1892-1959 or they have precious metals content.
Some traits are:
Dirty
Folded/Scratched
Used for transacting
No longer legal tender to transact with
Uncirculated Coins
Circulated Coins are coins which are minted in close to perfect condition, but they are only struck once instead of multiple times resulting in a foggy finish.
Some traits are:
Limited mintage
Comes with a certificate
Usually in a display case/folder
Coins/notes were never used for transactions
Bullion and Scrap Coins
Bullion Coins are coins which mainly consist of Precious Metals like silver, gold, platinum and ruthenium. Older South African coins also contain silver, if these coins are in circulated condition it is better to sell them as Bullion.
Some traits are:
Silver will tarnish from a milky white to all colours of the rainbow
These bullion coins are usually part of the ZAR and Union series of South Africa.
Most coins from 1892-1964 contain large amounts of silver.
Large silver One Rand coins from 1965-1976 contain silver.