Knowing what the obverse and reverse of a coin is is good, but not enough to call yourself a proper numismatist! In fact, it takes a lot of research to learn all the characteristics of a coin: the different parts, circulation, handling, trading and many other details. Your headache has probably just started but no worries – we’ve set up a short guide to help you go through the key vocabulary of numismatics.
Anatomy (numismatics)
Before going through the bones of numismatics, the first thing you should know about a coin is its anatomy. A great collector knows the slightest details of his coins. Differences in some parts of a coin might have an influence on its value and rarity. Let’s see how many of the following terms you know:
Obverse
Front side of a coin (“heads”). Usually contains portraits of historical figures and the date. However, there are many exceptions, for example animals, flowers, national symbols or even paintings in miniature can be depicted.
Reverse
Back side of a coin (“tails”). The value (or denomination), is usually displayed, as well as the date of issue for euros.
Edge
Outer border of a coin. This part is usually ignored but not only it has a name, but it also can be specified by a type: plain, reeded, lettered or decorated.
Rim
Raised edge on both sides of a coin. It’s used to protect the coin’s design. Use and circulation make this part invisible as time passes.
Legend
Main inscriptions or lettering on a coin. For example the name of the place or the person depicted on a coin.
Motto
An additional lettering popular on American coins: “In God We Trust” or “E Pluribus Unum”.
Field
Flat and empty portion of a coin’s surface, not containing any design or inscription.
Mint mark
Small letter(s) or symbol to identify where a coin was produced. Some coins do not have a mint mark. These coins are not common and might have a higher value on numismatic markets.
Designer’s initials
More letters, but this time they are barely visible. If you find them, the manufacturer’s effort will not have been in vain. It’s usually not common and can therefore increase the value of a coin.
Date
Year of issue of a coin.
Relief
Raised portion of a coin’s design. Commonly used for portraits or other important parts of a coin’s design.
After learning the anatomy of a coin, you are now able to understand all the characteristics that make a coin completely unique and you can share your collection with friends, other collectors or even merchants.
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Related: Numismatist’s vocabulary part 2
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