Collectors and numismatists often encounter the terms "Proof Like" (PL) and "Deep Mirror Proof Like" (DMPL) when evaluating rare coins. These terms describe a coin's surface quality and reflectivity, which significantly impact its desirability and value. While both PL and DMPL coins exhibit reflective characteristics similar to proof coins, they are distinctly different from true proof strikes.
What Is a Proof-Like (PL) Coin?
A Proof Like (PL) coin is a business strike (regularly issued for circulation) that exhibits mirror-like surfaces similar to proof coins but was not intentionally struck as a proof. These coins acquire their reflective surfaces due to being struck with new or highly polished dies. Over time, as the dies wear down, later strikes lose this proof-like quality.
Understand the difference between proof coins and mint state here.
Characteristics of a Proof-Like Coin:
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Reflective, mirror-like fields that distinguish them from standard business strikes.
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The mirrored effect is noticeable but not as deep or dramatic as DMPL coins.
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Some frosted devices (raised portions of the design), but not as prominent as on proof coins.
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Light to moderate contrast between the fields and devices.
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Must reflect text or images at least a few inches away when held under light.
Examples of Proof-Like Coins:
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Morgan Silver Dollars (e.g., 1880-S, 1881-S, and 1885-CC often show proof-like qualities).
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Seated Liberty Dollars (some early strikes display a PL finish).
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Canadian Maple Leaf Coins (modern bullion issues sometimes receive a PL designation).
What Is a Deep-Mirror-Proof-Like (DMPL) Coin?
A Deep Mirror Proof Like (DMPL) coin is an even more dramatic version of a PL coin, with ultra-reflective fields that resemble the deep mirrors of proof coins. These coins exhibit exceptionally strong reflectivity and contrast.
Characteristics of a Deep-Mirror-Proof-Like Coin:
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Extremely deep, mirror-like fields with a glassy, reflective quality.
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Fields must reflect readable text or images from at least 4–6 inches away.
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Often features significant cameo contrast between the frosted devices and mirror-like fields.
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Created by fresh dies that impart sharp, reflective surfaces before they wear down.
Examples of Deep-Mirror-Proof-Like Coins:
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Morgan Silver Dollars (1879-S, 1880-S, 1881-S, and 1885-CC are known for producing DMPL examples).
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Seated Liberty Dollars (rare DMPL examples exist).
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Gold Liberty Head Coins (some early strikes have DMPL qualities).
How Are PL and DMPL Coins Designated?
Professional grading services such as the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) assess and designate coins as PL or DMPL based on their reflectivity and contrast. These designations appear on the coin’s certification label.
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A coin with sufficient mirror-like qualities receives the PL (Proof-Like) designation.
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If the reflectivity is strong enough, typically with mirror depth exceeding 4–6 inches, it is awarded the DMPL (Deep-Mirror-Proof-Like) designation. Note: NGC designates DMPL coins with the DPL label.
Why Are PL and DMPL Coins Valuable?
PL and DMPL coins often command premiums over regular business strikes because of their visual appeal and rarity. Since these designations occur due to fresh die strikes, they represent only a fraction of total mintages. Collectors prize them for their beauty, and certain dates and mints yield more PL and DMPL coins than others.
Factors That Influence Value:
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Rarity: Some dates and mintmarks produce fewer PL and DMPL coins, increasing demand.
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Condition: Higher-grade coins with strong mirrors fetch higher premiums.
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Contrast: Coins with a stark contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields (similar to cameo proofs) are especially desirable.
Final Thoughts
Proof-Like and Deep-Mirror-Proof-Like coins offer a fascinating blend of rarity, beauty, and historical significance. These coins stand out due to their striking, mirror-like fields, making them highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. While they are not true proof coins, their exceptional reflectivity and contrast set them apart from standard business strikes.
For collectors, owning a PL or DMPL coin is like holding a piece of history frozen in its most pristine form—capturing the moment when a fresh die struck a coin with maximum brilliance. If you're looking to add one of these stunning coins to your collection, focus on well-known dates and mintmarks, and always purchase certified examples to ensure authenticity and quality.
Learn more about certified coins here.
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Happy Collecting!
