Satin Finish

Are the lincoln cents in the 2009 uncirculated mint set the 95% copper composite or just the proof sets ? thank you

Found this thread on Google in regards to the satin finish coins. Most of this information has been corrected throughout the course of the thread. But to clarify - the 94 and 97 nickels (found in the Thomas Jefferson Coinage and Currency and Botanic Gardens Coinage and Currency mint sets) are both considered close to matte proofs in quality. The 98 Kennedy half (found in the 2 coin Kennedy Collectors Set) is described as a true matte proof. However most TPG don't mention proof on the labels - all three coins are designated by SMS or SP on the label.

From what I've heard, the satin finishes were stopped in 2010 because they were often temperamental. The coins take much less rubbing to scuff the satin finish than their non-satin counterparts.

Putting together sets, it seems like the satins are a double-edged sword. The satins are more difficult to find without scuffed finishes but usually have less brown spots. The non-stains usually are easier to find un-scuffed but often have quite a bit more spotting - particularly on the brass dollars and cents.

I'm in the process of putting together Presidential dollars and Native American dollars with both satin and non-satin in both position A and B - that means 128 coins just for years 2007-2010 Presidential dollars - binders are pretty heavy :)

Still relevant 11 years later too