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What is a Burnished Coin?
In 2006 the US Mint launched the “W” Gold and Platinum Uncirculated Sets using specially burnished blanks (also known as planchets) in the minting process. Also produced were Silver Eagles struck on the burnished blanks.
A common misconception is that the actual dies are burnished, when it is the blanks themselves that are burnished before being struck with the die.
Burnishing is a process resulting in a smooth matte-like finish. These coins were only made at the West Point Mint and bear the "W" Mint Mark.
Guide created: 03/23/07 (updated 10/12/09)
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