Manufacturing Process

Manufacturing process refers to how a product is produced at a mint facility. Dies are cut differently in order to accomplish different looks for bullion and coins; think about how shiny a piece is (proof) or if is more dull (Mint State/BU) or even how high the design lifts from the surface (if it's higher than normal: High Relief or Ultra High Relief). Sometimes products are struck several times to get a different visual appeal or even have an extra process after being struck to enhance them, like antiquing or gilding.