Possible 1896 proof Morgan help

[jmj3esq]

I bought what was advertised as a PL Morgan today but it sure looks like a proof. It just has that look to it. It's not a deep cameo, but the fields just look different from most PL and DMPL coins. Plus this thing is hammered. Are there any diagnostics for this year? Any help would be appreciated.

[coinman_23885]

Are the rims rounded or squared? Here are some markers from VAM World:

 

http://www.vamworld.com/1896-P+PROOF

 

 

[Conder101]

Are the EDGES square? Meeting the rims at a 90 degree angle.

[cpm9ball]

It sure would help to see some photos!

 

Chris

[coinman1794]

As others have already said, the rims need to be squared off in order for it to be a Proof. Sometimes, this is the ONLY way to confirm Proof vs Business Strike on 19th Century coinage.

[Conder101]

And sometimes that won't work either. Proof shield nickels and nickel three cents don't always have squared edges, and business strikes in the later years often have squared rims and sharp details because mintages were so low pretty much all of coins were from sharp unworn dies.

[Nutmeg Coin]

Pictures?

[RWB]

...or "pitchers" ... something all can look at.