What is Cameo (CAM)?
Mirror-like effect on the field of numismatic proof coins. Traditionally on proof coins minted before 1971, only the first 100 or so coins would have this effect. “Deep Cameo” refers to coins with a dramatic contrast between frosted devices and the mirror-like field.
In 1950 the U.S. mint made a concerted effort to create cameo coins. To create a cameo, the die (an instrument used to strike the inverse version of the design on a blank) sits for a time in a nitric acid and alcohol mixture. This mixture on the die gives the coin face a frosted texture. Mint workers will then polish the fields, which resulted in brilliant fields and frosted devices. However, only a dozen or so coins from each batch are considered cameos, since the frosting can wear off quite easily, removing the contrast. When this happens a coin is known as brilliant. Only the coins that keep a visible contrast between the reflective fields and frosted designs become cameo coins.
Cameo coins, also known as proof coins, are classified as either cameo or deep cameo. Coins, where both sides remain frosted and have a dramatic contrast against highly reflective fields, are classified deep cameo. If a coin’s field is very reflective but the frosted design has worn off on both sides or is only frosted on one side, it is classified as a cameo.
If a cameo coin loses any of its identifying traits through normal circulation or overtime, then that coin may lose its classification as either a deep cameo or cameo coin.
In 2006, the U.S. Mint commemorated the 20th anniversary of the American Eagle Bullion Coin by releasing its first reverse proof coins. Reverse cameo coins display a frosted field and reflective design. These coins included an American Gold Eagle and an American Silver Eagle minted.
What people ask…
What is a cameo role in acting?
Who is the most expensive person on Cameo?
What is Cameo com?
Are cameos valuable?
What is a Cameo?
See Also…
Back to All Terms