Satin finish vs Proof "mirror" finish?

[StBarbara]

Newbie question, here -- I'm learning about half dollars. I need to understand the difference between recognizing a "satin finish" on the 2005-2010 Denver half dollars vs recognizing a "proof mirror-like finish". Any guidance from the experienced CRH-ers?
Thanks!

 

[Chizzy]

I'm no expert, but the way I understand it, a gloss finish may just be a plating. A true proof will have a frosted finish in the raised areas of the coins..........and it should have an "S" mint. It can get confusing, because the weights of a plated and a proof coin may be identical at about 11.4 to 11.5 grams...............

 

[StBarbara]

Thanks, Chizzy!