Matte proof coins are special proofs that have a grainy "sandblasted" look on the surface. Matte proof coins were sometimes made in the early part of the 1900's. Normal proof coins have a mirror like brilliant surface.
Matte proofs have a satiny finish as opposed to the highly-polished surface normally associated with proof coins. There are some very good pictures at http://www.numismedia.com/fmv/prices/libnkl/pricesgd.shtml
Proof coins are ones which have been minted more slowly and under greater pressure than normal circulation coins. This ensures all the detail in the dies is fully struck up. Normally the dies and blanks are polished, but sometimes the dies are sandblasted to give a matte appearance. A good example is the 1902 proof set of Great Britain.
Matte or matt proof coins normally are associated with very well struck up coins with a dark or dull patina. They are normally struck in the Coronation Year of any king or queen. For example the 1902 Edward VII British Halfcrown was struck as a matt proof as well as the normal 'currency' coin. The matt proof example is worth £200 in mint condition (most are). Correct as at 22 March 2012
A reverse proof coin features a contrasting finish that highlights the design elements, with the background appearing shiny and the raised areas matte. This technique creates a striking visual effect, enhancing the details of the coin's imagery. Reverse proof coins are often produced in limited quantities, making them popular among collectors. They are typically issued as commemorative pieces or special editions by mints.
A Proof dime is a dime that has been made using special techniques. Most US Proof coins are struck at least twice, and handled individually with tongs or gloved hands. While modern US Proof coins have a mirror-like background, or field, and satiny devices (raised areas), a Proof from 1941 may be all shiny or have a matte finish. A 1941 Proof dime is a Proof dime minted for 1941. (Note: if the intent was to ask for the value of this dime, see the Related Question "What is the value of a 1941 Proof US dime," a link to which can be found to the left below the blue "pod.")
Matte proofs have a duller, almost sandblasted appearance. There are contrasting images at the site linked below:
Matte proofs have a satiny finish as opposed to the highly-polished surface normally associated with proof coins. There are some very good pictures at http://www.numismedia.com/fmv/prices/libnkl/pricesgd.shtml
A 1922 matte proof Peace Silver Dollar is very rare - if you are fortunate to possess one, its value is at least $60,000! The term "matte" refers to the coin's appearance. Instead of having a very shiny surface, matte proofs look as if they were very finely sandblasted. There's an excellent set of pictures at the following link: www.coinfacts.com/silver_dollars/peace_dollars/1922_peace_dollar.htm
Proof coins are ones which have been minted more slowly and under greater pressure than normal circulation coins. This ensures all the detail in the dies is fully struck up. Normally the dies and blanks are polished, but sometimes the dies are sandblasted to give a matte appearance. A good example is the 1902 proof set of Great Britain.
Old pennies
Non-shiny
This means "Wait!" in English.
Coins were made with a matte finish specifically for collectors. Proof coins were made with an extra mirrored finish for the same reason. Either way, the finish increases or decreases the value of the coin.
The Proof 1998s Silver Matte Finish $300.00 per Red Book.
That does not sound like anything done specially at the mint because matte finishes are normally applied to certain areas of the design and then only to proof coins. Coin blanks can have all sorts of imperfections which may resemble a matte finish.
In pre-decimal days, the word "specimen" was often used to describe "Proof" coins, so in modern terms a "Specimen Matte Proof set" is a "Matte Proof set". 1937 was the Coronation year for George VI, and there were a few different Proof sets issued by the Royal Mint, both of which were referred to as "specimen" sets. The word "specimen" is most likely included on the original packaging, if there is any packaging. The four coin Proof set includes the Five Pound to Half-Sovereign coins. A Matte Proof set was offered for auction in March 2011, after authentication by the Royal Mint, and was expected to get over £90,000 GBP. There is no indication what the sale price was, or even if it sold. Depending on whom you choose to believe, this coin set is either "unique" or "rare". The fifteen coin Proof set includes the Crown to the Farthing and the Maundy set. There is almost no convincing information available on the "Matte Proof" set and only very fleeting references to the fact that one may have been produced at all. In the absence of any useful information, a reputable coin dealer will be able to identify your set and maybe authenticate it, and give a reasonable estimate of value.
'Matte' is the -te form conjugation of the verb 'matsu,' which means "to wait."