Both processes are used on Proof coins to enhance the appearance.
"Frosting" is the slight sand blasting of (usually) the raised surfaces of the coin to give a slightly dulled appearance in contrast to the mirror like finish of the flat surfaces of the coin.
"Matt" or "Matte" was a similar process but more so on the flat surfaces of the coin.
"Frosting" is the favoured process on modern Proof coins.
There are four types. 1. Normal 'Currency' type - value £3 - £5 (don't pay any more) 2. Matt proof - value £3,500 3. Frosted proof - value £600 4. Normal proof - value £35 The normal 'currency' type will look like any coin in your change with no mirror fields and a normal plain surface. The 'normal proof' will have mirror fields which reflect like a mirror. The Matt proof will have a dull, Matt appearance and be well struck up with superb detail. The frosted proof will show the image as a 'frosted' appearance against the background....it will make the queen look almost three-dimensional in appearance and be beautifully sttruck up. The frosted proof is extremely rare. Values correct as at 2 October 2010 - Consult Spink's Coins of England if a more up-to-date valuation is required.
KG VI means King George VI. A "Matt Proof" coin is a process where the surface of the coin is deliberately finely granulated as distinct from the usual mirror like surface of "Proof" coins with frosted highlights. The flat surfaces will have a satin like appearance. FDC is an abbreviation for Fleur du Coin. It refers to a "Proof" coin that has been hand finished.
A "Proof" coin is the same as its general circulation counterpart, but is one that is not intended for general circulation and is very highly polished. They are sold at a price that reflects the work put into them. A "Matt Proof" coin is a process where the surface of the coin is deliberately finely granulated as distinct from the usual mirror like surface of "Proof" coins with frosted highlights. The British 1937 Florin (Matt Proof FDC) is of the highest rarity and only two are known to exist, being minted only for display purposes.
A frosted proof coins were issued by the US Mint prior to 1936. In appearance they have a mirrorlike field [[the field of a coin is the flat areas not covered by the design]]with the design of the coin appearing to be frosted or dull in comparison to the field. This type of proof was again used on proof coins in the late 1970s and are refered to as "cameo" proofs. A mirror proof [[also called a Brilliant Proof]] has a mirrorlike surface over the entire coin. This type of proof was issued by the Mint from 1936 until sometime in the late 1970s.
There was only one type of 1953 British Crown minted, but it had three different finishes. The general circulation coin appears much as you would expect. The "Frosted VIP Proof" coin will have frosted highlights. The raised areas will be slightly dulled by sandblasting or etching of the die. The "Matt Proof FDC" coin is sufficiently rare that identifying one will not be an issue. The flat surfaces which are usually shiny, will be finely granulated.
A "Matt Proof" coin is a process where the surface of the coin is deliberately finely granulated as distinct from the usual mirror like surface of "Proof" coins with frosted highlights. The flat surfaces will have a satin like appearance. FDC is an abbreviation for Fleur du Coin. It refers to a "Proof" coin that has been hand finished. Any such coins are usually protectively packaged by the Mint and are sold at a price well above the face value of the coin.
A "frosted" Proof coin is one where parts of the pattern, usually the raised areas, have been deliberately dulled by etching or sand blasting the corresponding surfaces on the die. The finished coin then has a striking contrast of the frosted portion against the mirror like finish on the rest of the coin surface.
approximately $8 each
It should say so on the packaging it came in. A "Proof FDC" coin is struck with a specially prepared and highly polished die and the flat surfaces of the coin have a mirror like finish. A "Frosted" coin is a Proof FDC coin that has the raised parts of the design sandblasted of treated with acid to give a "Matt" appearance and make the raised design stand out against the mirror like finish of the flat surfaces. The extra work put into a Proof coin is reflected in the price you pay for it. They are always significantly more expensive than regular uncirculated or specimen coins. Pictures of a specific coin are difficult to come by. The coin shown in the related link below shows a "Proof" coin.
None of the major grading agencies list a small date 1960 nickel. The only small date coin issued in 1960 was the cent. In addition, frosted proofs were generally not issued until the 1980s. In any case, as of 03/2011 a 1960 proof nickel sells for anywhere from 50¢ for the lowest proof grade (60) to about $20 for a high-end coin (67)
1 / 5 not frosted
16 Cupcakes were frosted.