Specifications
Step 1: Refining
Raw gold or silver is refined to the required purity — typically .999 or .9999 fine. Modern refineries use electrolytic processes (Wohlwill Process) to achieve the highest purities.
Step 2: Blank Production
Refined metal is cast into long strips, then rolled to precise thickness. Circular blanks (called "planchets") are punched from the strips.
Step 3: Annealing
Blanks are heated in a controlled atmosphere to soften them for striking.
Step 4: Rimming
A slight raised rim is applied to each blank, which helps protect the design once struck.
Step 5: Striking
The blank is placed between two hardened steel dies and struck under immense pressure — often 100+ tons. The obverse (front) and reverse (back) designs are imprinted simultaneously.
Step 6: Quality Control
Each coin is inspected for defects. Proof coins undergo additional hand-polishing of dies and multiple strikes for mirror-like surfaces.
Step 7: Packaging
Bullion coins are typically packaged in tubes (20 coins per tube) and shipped in sealed "monster boxes" (500 coins). Proof coins receive individual presentation cases.
Bullion vs. Proof
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