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Proof Sets

Proof coin year sets are produced by the British Royal Mint each year in absolutely perfect (FDC) condition using special minting techniques quite different to the minting process for normal circulation quality coins. Often the proof coin images will have frosted relief against a mirror finish background. Some of the early years however are all mirror finish with no frosting. Proof coins represent the ultimate quality of coin achievable and are created with the specialist coin collector or investor in mind, using a completely different minting process from the coins you will find in your pocket.

Brilliant UNCirculated (BUNC) sets are also available from 1982 and these are nearly as high quality as Proof sets, but are produced only in mirror finish relief. A minting technique is used which is much closer to normal circulating coins but with specially polished dies and careful handling of individual coins prior to packaging. The BUNC sets are less expensive than the proof sets.

Year sets prior to 1970 were not issued by the Royal Mint at Proof standard, except for very special occasions such as Royal major events. Requests for year sets prior to 1970 will be fulfilled using coins of uncirculated mint condition quality wherever possible, depending on the rarity of the coins concerned. (Note that proof and BUNC sets are also available directly from the Royal Mint, but usually only for the current year and possibly the previous year).

Where "BUNC" is shown in our availability list we can supply Brilliant Uncirculated sets for the year indicated. For most years marked "In Stock" we can supply both proof and BUNC sets for that year.

We can make special framed personalised year sets to order, or can supply them as produced by the Royal Mint. Please contact us for further information on these.