Beginner’s Corner: The Business Strike

In last week's Beginner’s Corner column, we discussed strike types. We talked about the different ones and what they look like. This week let’s learn about the most common strike type more in-depth—the business strike.

To review, business strike--also referred to as circulation strike--coins are produced with the intent that they will circulate in normal commerce (as opposed to a proof coin specially made for collectors). Business strike coins are usually less valuable than proof coins because so many more of them are minted.

Business strike refers to the type of surface on the die and is struck in the same method as coins meant for circulation; no special treatment is given to the dies. Business Strike coins are given other names as well depending on their condition: mint state, uncirculated and circulated.

A mint state coin is defined as a coin in new condition that doesn’t have any signs of wear. Mint state is also interchangeable with uncirculated, which means the exact same thing. Whereas a circulated coin means that the condition of the coin has visible wear.

Next week, we will be delving into proof coins and their types of conditions and finishes. Check back next Wednesday and join the conversation on what is probably my favorite type of coin so far.