Proof coins. What is a cameo, d cam, gem++, etc.

[1996]

I've collected coins for a few years, and I've always known about proofs, but I have never collected them. What makes different proof coins of the same denomination and year and everything, worth more than others? What criteria must a proof coin meet to be called a cameo or whatever?
Also, in silver proof sets, the 10, 25, and 50 are 90% silver, but the penny and nickel are made up of the same materials as the regular proof ones. Are these worth any more? I've noticed that they have sharper edges and look better, but is there any difference, and do they get a premium?
thanks,
1996

 

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[Jeffro]

Cameo is a specially prepared proof where the details are frosted and the field is mirrorlike. Deep Cameo is especially so... they have some sort of unofficial requirements for deep cameo like a certain amount of inches you can see a reflection for it to qualify for deep cameo grade.
PQ++ is just someone's opinion. Stands for premium quality, and what may be PQ to you or me may not be to someone else.

As far as your other questions go, the silver proof sets sell for a bit more when they first come out, but price after that just depends on rarity and condition, like any other coin. So the answer is not necessarily.

Hope this helps!

 

[1996]

Sure does, thanks!