A Guide to Brilliant Uncirculated Coins: Are They Worth Investing In?

What is a brilliant uncirculated coin? That depends on who you ask. The term is often misused as a marketing buzz term, even though it has a specific meaning. We’re here to clear up the confusion and ambiguity so you can make an informed investment.

On a surface level, the term “brilliant uncirculated” (BU) is easy to break down. “Uncirculated” refers to coins that have never been used in commerce or exchanged hands (assuming you purchase them brand new). “Brilliant” is another word for shiny.

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So, with those basic definitions, it’s easy to see how the term can be misconstrued. If coins are both unused and shiny, doesn’t that technically make them brilliant uncirculated coins? Well, yes and no. 

There’s a difference between using the term as a descriptor and using it as a specific numismatic classification. Just because a coin is unused and shiny doesn’t mean it’s a genuine BU coin! Let’s dive deeper.

What Are Uncirculated Coins?

Before we discuss a coin’s brilliance—both as a descriptor and classifier—let’s define uncirculated. In the context of numismatics, uncirculated means the coin was produced through a specific minting process.

1. Burnished blanks are hand-loaded into presses with fresh dies.
2. The special blanks are struck with more force than usual.
3. The coins are plated and polished to give them an exceptional luster.
4. The finished coins are packed with a Certificate of Authenticity.

In summary, brilliant uncirculated coins go through a special minting process, so just being unused doesn’t necessarily make a coin uncirculated.

What Are Brilliant Coins?

What is a brilliant uncirculated coin? You can technically call an uncirculated coin brilliant if it’s shiny. But remember: we’re talking about a specific classification. 

Simply put, a brilliant coin is a “mint state” coin, meaning it’s in pristine condition and has retained its original luster and sheen after being minted. 

Just because a coin is uncirculated doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s still in brilliant condition. For example, say an uncirculated coin collection was stored improperly and oxidation tarnished the coins’ finishes. Yes, they’re still uncirculated, but they’re not brilliant uncirculated coins.

What About Proof Coins?

Proof coins are a step above BU coins. They’re the best of the best. While they’re technically both brilliant and uncirculated, they go through an even more in-depth minting process that gives them exceptional eye appeal—even more than BU coins.

1. The blanks are thoroughly clean, polished, and hand-treated to guarantee the highest possible strike quality.
2. The blanks are loaded by hand into presses equipped with polished dies.
3. The coins are struck twice at the bare minimum, sometimes more.
4. The coins are packaged with a Certificate of Authenticity in a commemorative protective capsule.

Learn more here: Proof Coins vs. Uncirculated Coins: What’s the Difference?‍

What Are Mint State Coins?

Just like other bullion coins, brilliant uncirculated coins are graded according to the Sheldon Coin Grading Scale. The scale runs from 1-70 and grades coins based on their strike, luster, tone, surface preservation, and eye appeal. 

A coin with a P01 grade is in the poorest possible condition; a coin with an MS70 is in the best possible condition. “Mint state” (MS) signifies that the coin has received a grade ranging from 60 to 70.

What is a brilliant uncirculated coin? It’s an uncirculated coin that has received at least an MS60 grade from a trusted third-party grading service, such as the PCGS or NGC. Just like with circulated bullion coins, the higher the grade, the better the condition and the higher the value.

Should I Invest in Brilliant Uncirculated Coins?

There’s no right or wrong answer here. BU coins can be fantastic investments, but they’re not always the ideal option. Unsurprisingly, BU coins cost more than circulated and low-grade coins. That said, the ROI can also be higher.

Some people buy bullion coins and bars as a means to an end—owning precious metal. For those investors, buying products that cost as close to the current spot price as possible would make more sense than paying a premium for BU coins.

On the other hand, rare coins can be an excellent investment, but they require a different approach. Whether you’re interested in brilliant uncirculated coins or historical relics, it’s very important that you have a firm grasp on numismatics—it’s not as straightforward as precious metals investing.

When you buy rare coins, you’re paying a premium to own a premium product. You’re anticipating that the value will rise with its scarcity. Rare coins are a more volatile investment because the value isn’t solely tied to precious metals markets.

Learn more here: Bullion vs. Numismatic Coins: Which Is Best for You?‍

Secure Your Financial Future

What is a brilliant uncirculated coin? BU coins hold a unique position—they’re rare bullion coins. Brilliant uncirculated coins are similar to traditional bullion coins, but they have that extra level of numismatic prestige, as well as potential to increase in value far beyond their intrinsic precious metals content.

Whether you’re interested in rare coins in pristine condition or traditional gold, silver, platinum, or palladium bullion coins, we can help you diversify your financial portfolio while adding beauty and value to your coin collection. 

Endeavor Metals is a trusted numismatics and precious metals dealer that offers a wide selection of top-tier products at competitive prices. Shop with confidence, knowing your purchase is protected by our 7-day, 100% money-back guarantee, even if the market has a downturn.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you have any questions about brilliant uncirculated coins, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We strive to be a reliable resource. Our goal is to educate our customers to ensure optimal results. Talk to a qualified precious metals specialist or numismatist today.

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