Proofs

A "Proof" is a coin resulting from a method of manufacturing a coin specifically for sale to collectors. A proof coin is (usually) of better quality than a regular circulation strike of the same coin. Proofs are usually made with specially prepared dies, and are usually struck twice or even three times by the dies, rather than the usual one strike given to regular circulation issues.

Historically, proofs usually have a highly reflective mirror-finish. In recent years, most proof coins are deliberately given a partial frosted finish to create a strong cameo effect; the "frostiness" is created by sandblasting the die, while mirrored areas are created by polishing those parts of the die.

Coin collecting, like any other specialized field of study, has lots of "jargon" words like this. For future reference, the CCF glossary contains lots of useful definitions for numismatic terms.

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It's time for you to buy one of those Red Books on coins. Lots of info in that book.