A business strike coin , also known as a circulation issue coin , is a coin produced by a mint and intended for general use as currency. These coins are minted in large quantities using high-speed presses, with an emphasis on durability and mass circulation rather than on achieving the highest aesthetic detail, [according to APMEX].
Here’s a breakdown of what defines business strike coins:
- Purpose: Primarily meant for everyday transactions and used as pocket change.
- Production: Produced in large quantities using high-speed machinery.
- Appearance: They are generally struck once and may show some minor imperfections, such as small contact marks, [notes the Fun Times Guide] . They may exhibit a natural shine known as mint luster if unworn and struck on fresh metal.
- Availability: Widely available as they are distributed to vendors and coin dealers for general circulation, instead of being directly sold to the public by the Mint.
It’s important to distinguish business strike coins from other types of coin strikes like:
- Proof Strike: Proof coins are specially produced for collectors and feature highly polished surfaces, often with frosted details and mirror-like fields, achieved through a more meticulous minting process involving multiple strikes.
- Uncirculated/Burnished Strike: These are collectible versions of business strikes, typically receiving some special care in production, and they often carry a mintmark, unlike many business strike coins.
While business strike coins are not primarily created for collectors, some can become quite valuable, especially those that are rare or in excellent condition after being withdrawn from circulation.
What does business strike mean on a coin?
Business Strike: A coin produced for general circulation (as opposed to a proof or uncirculated coin specially made for collectors) Bust: A portrait on a coin, usually including the head, neck and upper shoulders. Clad Coinage: Coins that have a core and outer layer made of different metals.
What is a strike coin?
Coin strike refers to the process of pressing an image into a blank metal disk, known as a planchet. The process is an integral part of minting, guaranteeing that the final coin has a distinct design.
What is a business strike on a quarter?
A circulation issue or circulation coin, sometimes called a business strike (US), is a coin minted and issued for commerce as opposed to those made as commemorative coins and proof coins.
How to identify first strike coin?
First Strike coins usually receive one of two top grades: MS-69 or MS-70 (PR-69 and PR-70 for graded proof coins). Coin grading services rely on the 70-point, internationally accepted Sheldon Coin Grading Scale. The Sheldon Scale ranges from 1 to 70, and the final score indicates a coin’s condition and quality.