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These coins were struck using specially prepared dies and planchets. They exhibit a duller satiny finish versus the brighter appearance on circulation strikes. They were also struck on a press that was calibrated to strike medals and coins for uncirculated mint sets, i.e. struck at a slower speed and higher pressure to bring up the relief of the designs. According to a Mint spokesperson, they did not keep track of the number of Philadelphia VIP strikes that were struck. However, it has been estimated independently by both a mint employee and a member of the numismatic press who were each in attendance at the ceremony that less than 600 pieces were struck. There were also 120 VIP
strikes (this is an official mintage figure) struck
during first strike ceremonies at the Denver Mint on
February 25, 2000. PHOTOS COURTESY
OF JOHN
E. HAGENSIEKER |
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