By GovMint :
To determine if your Silver Maple Leaf coin has a proof finish, you must examine a few key characteristics that set proof coins apart from their standard bullion counterparts. Proof coins are renowned for their superior craftsmanship and a mirror-like finish that gives them a glimmering, polished appearance. To achieve the proof finish, coins are struck multiple times with specially prepared dies. The final result is a coin whose background or field is highly reflective, while its design elements have a frosty appearance.
If your Silver Maple Leaf coin exhibits these characteristics, it's likely a proof coin. Additionally, see if the coin includes a Certificate of Authenticity. Most Royal Canadian Mint proof coins are issued with one, and this is a surefire way to tell which finish your coin has without having to guess.
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