Proof Proof is not a grade, but a term for a specially struck coin, often with matt design against mirror finish background, produced originally as pre-production samples, now often marketed for collectors. Not Science It is important to realise or remember that grading is not a precise science. Opinions about grade will vary between individuals. Even expert dealers will grade a coin differently on different days. Grading is an attempt to achieve a reasonably standard set of descriptions, mainly to facilitate trade between collectors and dealers especially whrn dealing by mail order or telephone.
Most professional dealers try to grade consistently.
When selling by mail order, most dealers allow a reasonable approval or return period, ours is 7 days. We try to grade accurately and consistently, partly from pride, but also from the very practical viewpoint that we would prefer customers not to return coins, it creates much less work for us if our customers are pleased with the coins they receive, and wish to keep them. British Coin Denominations. Common Names of British Coins.