Définition

• Bright Finish.  A highly reflective surface on a numismatic item from extensive polishing with rouge and a buffing wheel. Such a polished surface is often done to imitate proof finish (often called "poor man's proof surface" or whizzing) – but in reality polishing of the struck piece cannot closely resemble the piece struck from polished dies and polished planchets (see proof surface). Since polishing can be done by anyone at anytime during the life of a numismatic item, and is not an intended finish for a coin, it is considered detrimental by serious numismatists and reduces its collector value. The glossy shinny satin finish of bright finish is normally used instead of a highlighted finish. Medals made by silver manufacturers, who typically give a bright finish to their silver products (silverware, coffee pots, trays and such), are occasionally given a bright finish as well. Some lettering and edges on medals made by jewelry manufacturers are bright finished for contrast with a satin or matte finish on the same piece (see jewelry finish). Other medals, particularly aluminum, have been observed with a highly polished surface. In cataloging either coins or medals, a bright finish should be noted.  See buffing and polishing.

  excerpted with permission from

  An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology

  For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators

  COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON

  Roger W. Burdette, Editor

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