Gold Sovereign

[Xander]

Would anyone know if this is a matte proof coin or an ordinary proof coin? I'm lost.

[sovereignsteve]

It's not an ordinary proof coin. I assume it's a 1902? The "ordinary" proofs are exceptionally rare, only one or two examples known. It does look like it could well be a matte proof but these can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from bullion coins in photographs.

Matte proofs should have an even matt finish over the whole of the coin where as you can distinguish a difference between the texture of the features and field with bullion coins. Matte proofs have a slightly different colour too.

From your photo, it looks like a matte proof that's had quite a bit of handling, you can see the wear on the field. 

[Xander]

37 minutes ago, sovereignsteve said:

It's not an ordinary proof coin. I assume it's a 1902? The "ordinary" proofs are exceptionally rare, only one or two examples known. It does look like it could well be a matte proof but these can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from bullion coins in photographs.

Matte proofs should have an even matt finish over the whole of the coin where as you can distinguish a difference between the texture of the features and field with bullion coins. Matte proofs have a slightly different colour too.

From your photo, it looks like a matte proof that's had quite a bit of handling, you can see the wear on the field. 

Thanks for your expert advice, much appreciated. I think I will pass on buying this one.