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{{Numismatics}}

This '''glossary of numismatics''' is a list of definitions of terms and concepts relevant to [[numismatics]] and [[coin collecting]], as well as sub-fields and related disciplines, with concise explanations for the beginner or professional.

Numismatics (ancient [[Greek language|Greek]]: {{lang|grc|νομισματική}}, meaning "monetary") is the scientific study of [[money]] and its history in all its varied forms. While [[Numismatist (specialist)|numismatists]] are often characterized as studying [[coin]]s, the discipline also includes the study of other types of money, such as [[banknotes]], stock certificates, [[medal]]s, medallions, and [[Token coin|tokens]] (also referred to as [[exonumia]]).

Sub-fields and related fields of numismatics include:
* [[Exonumia]], the study of [[coin]]-like objects such as [[token coin]]s and [[medal]]s, and other items used in place of legal currency or for commemoration.
* [[Notaphily]], the study of paper [[money]] or [[banknote]]s.
* [[Philately]], the study of [[postage stamps]].
* [[Scripophily]], the study and collection of company share certificates and [[Bond (finance)|bonds]].

{{compact ToC|side=yes|refs=yes|extlinks=yes|nobreak=yes}}

==A==
{{glossary}}
{{term|adjustment}}
{{defn|The filing down of a blank to the correct mass before striking, shown by file marks. File marks are often still visible on the surface of a coin even after being struck.}}

{{term|alliance coinage}}
{{defn|Coins minted by two or more state governments in cooperation. Examples include the [[euro coin]]s.}}

{{term|[[alloy]]}}
{{defn|A homogeneous mixture of two or more chemical elements, where the resulting compound has metallic properties. Common coin alloys include [[cupro-nickel]] (copper and nickel) and [[bronze]] (copper and tin).}}

{{term|altered date}}
{{defn|A false date put on a coin to defraud collectors, usually to make it appear more valuable. Such alterations are often easily spotted with the aid of a magnifying glass.}}

{{term|anepigraphic coin}}
{{defn|A coin without an epigraph or inscription. Many ancient coins used only a simple picture of an animal to show value or weight.}}

{{term|[[Annealing (metallurgy)|annealing]]}}
{{defn|The process of repeatedly heating and cooling metal in order to relieve stresses. This is often done with coin blanks to make the metal less brittle before striking.}}

{{term|[[Metallurgical assay|assay]]}}
{{defn|A test to ascertain the weight and purity of a coin.}}

{{term|attribution}}
{{defn|An identifier of a coin, such as date, mint, denomination, or variety.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==B==
{{glossary}}
{{term|bag mark}}
{{ghat|Also called a '''contact mark'''.}}
{{defn|A surface mark, or nick, on a coin, usually from contact with other coins in a mint bag.<ref name="Yeoman74">{{cite book |last1=Yeoman |first1=Richard |title=A Guide Book of United States Coins 2021 |date=2020 |publisher=Whitman Publishing |location=Pelham, AL |pages=451–53 |edition=74th |isbn=978-0794847968}}</ref> More often seen on large gold or silver coins.}}

{{term|[[banker's mark]]}}
{{defn|A small {{gli|countermark}} applied to a coin by a bank or a trader indicating that they consider the coin to be genuine and of legal weight. These are found on ancient and medieval coins as well as on silver coins which circulated in China and Japan, where they are referred to as [[Chop marks on coins|chop-marks]].}}

{{term|[[base metal]]}}
{{defn|Any non-precious metal or {{gli|alloy}} that does not contain gold or silver. Common base metals used in coinage include [[nickel]] and [[copper]].}}

{{term|beading}}
{{defn|A raised dot border along the rim of a coin.}}

{{term|[[Billon (alloy)|billon]]}}
{{defn|A low-grade {{gli|alloy}} of [[gold]] or [[silver]] with a high percentage of another metal, usually [[copper]].<ref name="Yeoman74" /> Billon is often produced in response to a sudden debasing of circulating silver coinage due to [[hyperinflation]].}}

{{term|[[bi-metallic coin]]}}
{{defn|A coin with one type of metal in the center with an outer ring of a different metal. Examples are the 1 and 2 Euro coins and the Canadian "[[toonie]]" two-dollar coin.}}

{{term|[[Planchet|blank]]}}
{{ghat|Also called a '''planchet''' or '''flan'''.}}
{{defn|no=1|A prepared disk of metal on which the design for a coin will be stamped.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{defn|no=2|The un-struck or flat side of a {{gli|uniface}} coin or medal.}}

{{term|[[brass]]}}
{{defn|A [[copper]]-based {{gli|alloy}} with [[zinc]].}}

{{term|[[brockage]]}}
{{defn|Originally referring to metal wasted in coin production, now means coins struck when the previous coin remains stuck to a die, creating an incuse impression in the next struck coin (primarily found in ancient coins).}}

{{term|[[bronze]]}}
{{ghat|Also abbreviated '''Æ'''<ref name="Sear">David Sear. ''Greek Imperial Coins and Their Values.'' Spink Books, 1982. {{ISBN|9781912667352}} p. xxxv.</ref> or '''AE'''<ref name="Berman">Allen G. Berman. ''Warman's Coins And Paper Money: Identification and Price Guide.'' Penguin, 2008. {{ISBN|9781440219153}}</ref>.}}
{{defn|A [[copper]]-based {{gli|alloy}} with [[tin]].}}

{{term|[[bullion]]}}
{{defn|Precious metals ([[platinum]], [[gold]] and [[silver]]) in the form of bars, ingots or plate, or in any context where weight is considered as a valuation.}}

{{term|[[bullion coin]]}}
{{defn|Precious metals in the form of coins whose market value is determined by metallic content rather than scarcity.}}

{{term|bullion value}}
{{defn|The current market value of the raw precious metal content of a coin. For example, the bullion value for Canadian silver coins minted between 1920 and 1966 is 12 times the face value when silver is $20.00 per troy ounce.}}

{{term|[[Regular issue coinage|business strike]]}}
{{defn|A coin intended for everyday use in commerce.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==C==
{{glossary}}
{{term|cameo}}
{{defn|A strong distinction in the surface appearance of foreground devices relative to the field. Proof coins often exhibit this feature.}}

{{term|[[Carat (unit)|carat]]}}
{{defn|A unit measurement of the weight of precious stones. See {{gli|karat}} for the unit of measurement of the purity of gold.}}

{{term|[[Cast coinage|cast coins]]}}
{{defn|Coins produced by pouring metal into a mold. Used for the first Ancient Roman bronze [[As (Roman coin)|as]] coins and Chinese [[Cash (Chinese coin)|cash]] coins, but rarely used today. Modern counterfeit coins are often cast.}}

{{anchor|cent}}{{term|centum}}
{{defn|One one-hundredth of the basic monetary unit of a currency system. Originally a Latin term, there are many variations in modern languages, including the English ''cent'' and Romance languages ''centavos'', ''centimos'', ''centesimos'' or ''centimes''. Each of these units is valued at one one-hundredth of its corresponding base unit, such as the dollar, euro, peso, etc.}}

{{term|certified coin}}
{{defn|A coin that has been graded and authenticated by one of numerous independent grading services.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> See also ''{{gli|encapsulated coin}}''.}}

{{term|chop-mark}}
{{defn|See ''{{gli|banker's mark}}''.}}

{{term|[[Communion token|church tokens]]}}
{{ghat|Also called '''Communion tokens'''.}}

{{defn|Tokens generally issued initially by Scottish parishes (die stamped one-side only to show the parish) and later in the United States and Canada. They were square or oblong, made of lead, iron or brass and measured 1/4" (0.635 mm) to 1" (2.54 mm).<ref>{{citation |url=http://www.materialreligion.org/documents/aug98doc.html |first=Mary McWhorter |last=Tenney |title=Communion Tokens: Their History and Use, With a Treatise on the Relation of the Sacrament to the Vitality and Revivals of the Church |location=Grand Rapids, Michigan |publisher=Zondervan Publishing House |year=1936 |pages=11–16}}</ref>}}

{{term|circulated}}
{{defn|A term used to indicate a coin that has wear.}}

{{term|clad coinage}}
{{defn|Issues of coins using [[Cladding (metalworking)|cladding]]

with a center core and an outer layer of differing metals or alloys [[Metallic bonding|bonded]] together. The current [[Quarter (United States coin)|U.S. Quarter]], dime, and half dollar are made of cupronickel-clad copper.}}

{{term|clipping coins}}
{{defn|Describes the removal of, usually, precious metal from the edge of a coin using shears or a similar tool for fraudulent purposes. The removed metal could be accumulated as bullion and sold or used to make [[counterfeit coins]].}}

{{term|[[Coin orientation|coin alignment]]}}
{{defn|The term used to describe the positions of the {{gli|obverse}} (front) and {{gli|reverse}} (back) designs relative to each other. A ''medal alignment'' describes a coin struck so that when the obverse side is facing upright, and the coin is turned on its vertical axis, the reverse side is also facing upright. A ''coin alignment'' describes a coin struck so that when the obverse side is facing upright, the coin must be flipped top-to-bottom to see the reverse side facing upright.  U.S. coins are struck with coin alignment.}}

{{term|collar}}
{{defn|The outer ring of the die chamber that holds the {{gli|blank}} in place while the obverse and reverse are being stamped.}}

{{term|contact marks}}
{{defn|Minor abrasions on uncirculated coinage created by contact with other coins.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> Also called ''{{gli|bag mark|bag marks}}''.}}

{{term|countermark}}
{{ghat|Also '''counterstamp'''.}}
{{defn|Partial or complete over-stamping of a coin or token in order to change its value or issuing authority, or to display an advertisement, political slogan or symbol, etc. Stamping may consist of a number (value), symbol (authority), letters (advertisement or slogan), or any combination of the above.}}

{{term|crown}}
{{defn|A large coin often struck in precious metal. Modern crowns are usually not highly circulated due to being too large and/or too heavy. The United States' last crown-sized coin minted for circulation was the [[Eisenhower Dollar]], last struck in 1978.}}

{{term|cud}}
{{defn|A defect in which a coin has raised metal near its edge. It is caused by a chipped die.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==D==
{{glossary}}
{{term|debase}}
{{defn|To lower the silver/gold value of the coin by altering its purity, but with the same face value as the pure coin. This often happens during periods of high inflation.}}

{{term|denticles}}
{{defn|Small, decorative tooth-like projecting points on the inside edge of a coin.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcgs.com/news/why-do-some-coins-have-denticles|title=Why Do Some Coins Have Denticles?|author=Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez|work=[[Professional Coin Grading Service]]|date=July 13, 2021|accessdate=September 24, 2024}}</ref>}}

{{term|[[designer]]}}
{{defn|The artist or creator of a coin's design.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|device}}
{{defn|A pattern or emblem used in the design of a coin.}}

{{term|[[coin die|die]]}}
{{defn|An engraved metal piece used for transferring the design to the coin. In a vertical arrangement, the upper (or hammer) die is typically used for the obverse. The lower (or anvil) die is stationary and is used for the reverse. The arrangement may also be horizontal.<ref name="Dies">{{cite web |url=https://www.fleur-de-coin.com/articles/coin-striking |title=How do we strike coins today? |accessdate=2023-12-17 }}</ref>}}

{{term|die clash}}
{{defn|Caused when a coin {{gli|planchet}} fails to be placed between two dies during the minting process, causing the dies to smash together. The design of one or both may impress into the opposite die, causing a "shadow" of the design to appear on subsequent coins minted with the damaged dies. The impact of the two dies may also result in {{gli|die crack|die cracks}} or {{gli|die defect|defects}}.}}

{{term|die crack}}
{{defn|A fine raised line on a coin that was caused by a crack in the die.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|die defect}}
{{defn|An imperfection of various sorts caused by a damaged die. May refer to a crack or clash or a chip out of the die, etc. A defect from a chipped die is called a {{gli|cud}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|die marriage}}
{{defn|The combination of a particular {{gli|obverse}} and {{gli|reverse}} set of dies. If one die is replaced, a new die marriage is created.}}

{{term|die state}}
{{defn|A variation in the appearance of a coin struck by a single {{gli|die}}, resulting from wear or alteration of the die. For example, the presence or absence of {{gli|die crack|die cracks}} may signal a specific die state.}}

{{term|die variety}}
{{defn|A minor variation in a die, including repunched mintmarks, doubling or deliberate minor changes to the die design.}}

{{term|[[Dime (United States coin)|dime]]}}
{{defn|A coin issued in the United States worth $0.10 (ten {{gli|cent|cents}}). While the term ''dime'' is American in origin, Canadians often use the term as well.}}

{{term|dipping}}
{{defn|The chemical cleaning of a coin with a diluted acid. This "cleanliness" is a result of the surface of the coin being dissolved by the acid. Dipped coins almost always have a lower numismatic value than when they were in their former "dirty" state, hence most numismatists do not recommend dipping or any other method of cleaning coins as doing so will likely reduce the coin's value.}}

{{term|[[Double Eagle]]}}
{{defn|<small>(U.S.A.)</small> A gold coin struck in the United States from 1850 to 1933, worth $20.00.}}
 
[[Image:doubledate.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Example of extreme '''{{gli|double strike|doubling}}''' on the date of a coin]]
{{term|double strike}}
{{defn|A coin where a {{gli|die}} is struck, bounced, and then struck again slightly offset from first strike (common on ancient and medieval coins where hubs were not used), resulting in a coin with a "doubled" image.}}

{{term|[[doubled die]]}}
{{defn|A {{gli|die}} that received two misaligned impressions from a hub; more commonly, a coin struck by such a die.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[doubloon]]}}
{{defn|The popular name of a Spanish gold coin originally valued at 4 [[Spanish dollar|dollars]]. The formal term was "2 ''[[escudo]]s''".}}

{{term|dump}}
{{defn|<small>(Australia)</small> The centre of the {{gli|holey dollar}} with a value of fifteen pence.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==E==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[Eagle (U.S. coin)|Eagle]]}}
{{defn|no=1|<small>(U.S.A.)</small> A gold coin minted in the United States from 1795 to 1933, worth $10.00.}}
{{defn|no=2|<small>(U.S.A.)</small> A series of {{gli|bullion coin|bullion coins}} minted in the United States from 1986 through the present.}}

{{term|[[rim (coin)|edge]]}}
{{defn|The rim of a coin, often containing a series of reeds, lettering or other decoration.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[French écu|ecu]]}}
{{defn|A large French silver coin made during the end of the monarchy. Also a proposed European currency unit.}}

{{term|[[effigy]]}}
{{defn|The image or likeness of a person, usually depicted on the {{gli|obverse}} of a coin or medal.}}

{{term|[[Electrotyping|electrotype]]}}
{{defn|A reproduction made by electrodeposition, frequently used in museum displays.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[electrum]]}}
{{ghat|Also abbreviated '''EL'''<ref name="Edwards">Jonathan Edwards. ''Catalogue of the Greek and Roman Coins in the Numismatic Collection of Yale College, Volume 2.'' Tuttle, Morehouse & Taylor, 1880. p. 228.</ref>}}
{{defn|An artificial or naturally occurring {{gli|alloy}} of gold and silver, used in some of the world's first coinage.}}

{{term|[[elongated coin]]}}
{{defn|An oval medalet produced by a roller die using a coin, token or medal as a {{gli|planchet}}, usually a {{gli|cent}}.}}

{{term|[[coin capsule|encapsulated coin]]}}
{{defn|A coin that has been authenticated, graded and enclosed in plastic by an independent service.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[engraver]]}}
{{defn|A person who cuts the image of a design onto a {{gli|die}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[Mint-made errors|error]]}}
{{defn|An error that occurs in the production of a coin,<ref name="Yeoman74"/> for example, due to an engraving or die-cutting error. Coin errors are often unique, although engraving errors can appear on all of the coins produced until the error is corrected resulting in error {{gli|variety|varieties}}.}}

{{term|[[Essay (numismatics)|essai, essay]]}}
{{defn|A trial strike, also in currency a strike intended to test the design.}}

{{term|exergue}}
{{ghat|Also abbreviated '''ex.'''<ref name="Edwards"/>}}
{{defn|A segment of a coin design separated by a line (usually indicating the ground in the design) in which a legend is placed/inscribed.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==F==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[face value]]}}
{{defn|The value that is written on a coin. For example, an American one-cent coin has a face value of 1 {{gli|cent}}. A collectable coin or {{gli|bullion coin}} is usually worth many times its face value.}}

{{term|[[fantasy issue]]}}
{{defn|unofficial coin or paper note (not legal tender) made to honor a person or event, for advertising purposes, for humor, for artistic purposes, or to show how it might have looked had it been actually issued.}}

{{term|field}}
{{defn|The background area of a coin not used for a design or inscription.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|filler}}
{{defn|A coin that is very worn and/or damaged, but may still be included in a collection if it is a {{gli|key coin}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[fineness]]}}
{{defn|Purity of precious metal content expressed in terms of one thousand parts, e.g. 90% pure is expressed as ''.900 fine''.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> The [[Gold Maple Leaf|purest gold bullion coin]] is .99999 fine.}}

{{term|[[Planchet|flan]]}}
{{defn|See ''{{gli|blank}}''.}}

{{anchor|fleur de coin}}{{term|fleur de coin (FDC)}}
{{defn|A coin of exceptionally high quality, where quality is determined not just by wear of the coin in circulation but also by the wear and artistic quality of the {{gli|die|dies}} from which it was minted. These factors are crucial for ancient coinage where variability was higher than in modern mints. See also ''{{gli|grade}}''.}}

{{term|flip strike}}
{{defn|An error caused by the coin flipping over after being struck, and then struck a second time, resulting in each face of the coin showing a "ghost" of the opposite face.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==G==
{{glossary}}
{{term|gem}}
{{defn|A coin of exceptionally high quality or good condition, such as Gem Uncirculated or Gem Proof.}}

{{term|[[coin grading|grade]]}}
{{defn|The condition of a coin or the amount of wear that a coin has received. Common grade terms used in North America, from worst to best, are ''Poor (Po)'', ''Fair (Fr)'', ''About Good (AG)'', ''Good (G)'', ''Very Good (VG)'', ''Fine (F)'', ''Very Fine (VF)'', ''Extra/Extremely Fine (EF or XF)'', ''Almost Uncirculated (AU)'', ''Uncirculated (UNC)'', and ''Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)''. Grading criteria may also include color, strength of strike, and "eye appeal".}}
{{glossaryend}}

==H==
{{glossary}}

{{term|[[Hacksilver]]}}
{{defn|Fragments of cut and bent silver items that were used as bullion or as currency by weight in antiquity.}}

{{term|[[Hairlines]]}}
{{defn|Small scratches or lines on coins, often caused by the process of cleaning or polishing.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usmint.gov/learn/collecting-basics/glossary?srsltid=AfmBOooB4LHQywvWJvdmDqMSxT5GxoUv83ubDADt9G9nESv7G9U7xPMt |title=Coin Term Glossary |publisher=usmint.gov |date=2024-10-30 |access-date=2025-01-17}}</ref>}}

{{term|[[Hammered coinage|hammered]]}}
{{defn|A coin that has been struck by hand, using {{gli|die|dies}} and a hammer.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gold-sovereign.net/category/coin-numismatic-terminology/ |title=Coin / Numismatic Terminology |publisher=www.Gold-Sovereign.net |date=2013-08-13 |access-date=2013-09-04}}</ref>}}

{{term|high relief}}
{{defn|A coin with the raised design high above the field. Coins struck in high relief often have problems with details not coming up sharp enough and dies having a shorter than usual lifespan. If the design is higher than the {{gli|rim}}, the coin may not be stackable, and the highest points of the design will wear away very quickly.}}

{{term|[[holey dollar]]}}
{{defn|<small>(Australia)</small> A Spanish eight-real coin with a hole in the centre, stamped with ''New South Wales 1813'' on the {{gli|obverse}} and ''five shilling'' on the {{gli|reverse}}.}}

{{term|hub}}
{{defn|A positive-image punch that impresses a coin's design onto a {{gli|die}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==I==
{{glossary}}
{{term|incuse}}
{{defn|Part of the coin's design that has been impressed below the surface ([[Intaglio (sculpture)|intaglio]]).<ref name="Yeoman74" /> Not as popular as the "relief" method due to the difficulty of striking clearly and the shorter lifespan of dies.}}

{{term|[[ingot]]}}
{{defn|A bar of pure metal formed by pouring the molten metal into a mould. It may be stamped with its weight and purity.}}

{{term|[[inscription]]}}
{{defn|Lettering or wording on a coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|intrinsic value}}
{{defn|The current market value of a coin based on its metallic content. For a coin struck on precious metals, this is the same as its {{gli|bullion value}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==K==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[Carat (purity)|karat]]}}
{{defn|A unit measurement of the purity of gold. Usually marked ''K'' or ''k''; 24K is pure gold, 18K is .750 fine. Not to be confused with the similar term {{gli|carat}}, which is used with precious stones. Both terms originally referred to the seed of the [[carob tree]] (''Ceratonia siliqua'' or ''Siliqua Graeca''). A Roman coin called the [[Solidus (coin)|solidus]] weighed 24 "carats" or "siliquae", 1/6 of a scruple, which eventually became the standard of purity in Western Europe.}}

{{term|key coin}}
{{defn|A rarer or higher valued coin within a series.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> As an example, 1923 and 1925 are key coins in the Canadian small cent series.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==L==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[laureate]]}}
{{ghat|Also abbreviated '''laur.'''<ref name="Sear"/>}}
{{defn|A style of coin portraiture started in ancient Rome whose coins often showed the Emperor's head crowned with a laurel wreath. The American Barber coins from 1892 to 1915 and the first portrait of Queen Elizabeth II used in Great Britain from 1953 to 1967 are modern examples.}}

{{term|[[legal tender]]}}
{{defn|Coins or currency which must be accepted in payment of debt.}}

{{term|legend}}
{{defn|The principal {{gli|inscription}} on a coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|lettered edge}}
{{defn|The outside edge of a coin containing an {{gli|inscription}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|low relief}}
{{defn|A coin with the raised design not very high above the {{gli|field}}.}}

{{term|[[Lustre (mineralogy)|luster]]}}
{{defn|The appearance of a coin's ability to reflect light; brilliance. Percentage of the original mint luster is one of the factors in determining grades of "Mint State" coins (e.g. MS-60, MS-65).}}
{{glossaryend}}

==M==
{{glossary}}
{{term|master die}}
{{defn|An original {{gli|die}} from which working {{gli|hub|hubs}} are made.}}

{{term|[[Maundy money]]}}
{{defn|An annual gift made on [[Maundy Thursday]] of a set of pure silver coins made by the Royal Mint and distributed personally by the monarch to the poor of [[Canterbury]]. The number of sets distributed reflects the age of the monarch at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalmint.com/discover/uk-coins/maundy-money/|title=Maundy Money Coins {{pipe}} the Royal Mint}}</ref>}}

{{term|[[Medallic orientation|medal alignment]]}}
{{defn|A method of striking coins in which both the obverse and reverse dies are aligned in the same direction. For example,
[[Coins of the pound sterling|British]] and most other [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] coinage, [[Japanese_yen#Coins|Japanese coinage]], and [[Euro coins|Euro coinage]] have medallic orientation. Contrast ''{{gli|coin alignment}}''.}}

{{term|[[medal-coin]]}}
{{defn|See ''{{gli|nclt|NCLT}}''.}}

{{term|[[milled coinage]]}}
{{defn|Machine-struck coinage. In contrast to {{gli|hammered}} coinage and {{gli|cast coinage}}.}}

{{term|[[Reeding|milled edge]]}}
{{ghat|Also called a '''reeded edge'''.}}
{{defn|The edge of a coin with grooved lines around the perimeter.}}

<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:1937-D 3-leg Indian Head nickel.png|thumb|right|200px|The "3-leg" [[Mint-made errors|Mint error]] was created by polishing a damaged [[Obverse and reverse|reverse]] [[Die (manufacturing)|die]] with an emery stick.]] -->

{{term|[[Mint (facility)|mint]]}}
{{defn|An industrial facility which manufactures coins.}}

{{term|[[Mint-made errors|mint error]]}}
{{defn|A defective coin produced by a mint.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|mint luster}}
{{defn|The shiny "frost" on the surface of an uncirculated or mint state coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[mint mark]]}}
{{defn|A small letter or other symbol inscribed on a coin, indicating at which {{gli|mint}} the coin was struck. Examples are "S" for San Francisco on U.S. coins, or "A" for Paris on French coins.}}

{{term|mint roll}}
{{defn|Newly minted coins wrapped in rolls of a certain quantity, by the mint or issuing authority.}}

{{term|mint set}}
{{defn|A set of uncirculated coins packaged and sold by a mint.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[Sheldon_coin_grading_scale#Uncirculated_grades|Mint State (MS)]]}}
{{defn|Another term for {{gli|uncirculated}} or {{gli|fleur de coin}}, usually used in North America. Conditions range from MS-60 to MS-70.}}

{{term|mis-strike}}
{{defn|An off-centre striking of a coin.}}

{{term|monster box}}
{{defn|A large plastic shipping box for silver bullion coins, holding 500 coins. U.S. {{gli|Silver Eagle|Silver Eagles}} are shipped in green monster boxes while Canadian Maple Leafs are shipped in red monster boxes.}}

{{term|[[motto]]}}
{{defn|An inspirational phrase or wording.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> Examples include "[[In God We Trust]]" inscribed on U.S. currency, or "[[Liberté, égalité, fraternité]]" inscribed on French currency.}}

{{term|[[Mule (coin)|mule]]}}
{{defn|A coin struck from two {{gli|die|dies}} never intended to be used together.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==N==
{{glossary}}
{{anchor|nclt}}{{term|NCLT}}
{{defn|Non-circulating {{gli|legal tender}}. These coins are issued in "limited editions" for collectors and are typically sold for far more than their {{gli|face value}}. While these coins are technically legal tender, their {{gli|bullion value}} usually far exceeds their face value.}}
{{term|[[Notgeld]]}}
{{defn|"emergency money" or "necessity money" refers to money issued by an institution in a time of economic or political crisis.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==O==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[obverse]]}}
{{ghat|Also abbreviated '''obv.'''<ref name="Sear"/>}}
{{defn|The front or "heads" side of a coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|overdate}}
{{defn|A date shown made by superimposing numbers on a previously dated {{gli|die}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|overgraded}}
{{defn|A coin in worse condition than stated.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|overstrike}}
{{defn|An impression with new dies on a previously struck coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==P==
{{glossary}}
[[Image:Essai-Piefort.jpg|thumb|240px|''Regular coin'', ''essai'' (pattern) and ''piedfort'']]
{{term|[[Pattern coin|Pattern]]}}
{{defn|A coin minted from official dies that is not a regular issue, and intended to evaluate new alloys or designs. Patterns can be divided in three categories.}}
{{defn|no=1|A coin which represents a new design, motto, or denomination, proposed but not adopted, at least for the same year. Most of the unadopted designs fit into this modality.}}
{{defn|no=2|''Die trials'': A coin made with the regular issue dies, in metals other than the proper. Usually minted to verify details of a new coin, value or design.}}
{{defn|no=3|''Experimental pieces'': A very similar process to "die trials", but with subtle differences. A coin minted with a die, official or not, to try a new metal, alloy, or shape.}}

{{term|[[patina]]}}
{{defn|A surface film caused by oxidation, usually green or brown, mostly found on older silver, copper or bronze coins.}}

{{term|pedigree}}
{{defn|The [[provenance]] or record of previous owners of a coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[piedfort]]}}
{{defn|A coin struck on a {{gli|planchet}} that is thicker than normal, typically twice as thick. "Piefort" is a common misspelling.}}

{{term|[[planchet]]}}
{{defn|A {{gli|blank}} prepared piece of metal on which the coin is struck.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|portrait}}
{{defn|The {{gli|obverse}} (front-side) image.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://coins.about.com/od/coinsglossary/ss/coinanatomy_4.htm#step-heading|title=How to Describe Your Coins to Other Collectors|access-date=2014-12-05|archive-date=2014-12-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211023639/http://coins.about.com/od/coinsglossary/ss/coinanatomy_4.htm#step-heading|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}

{{term|[[Mint-made_errors#Post-mint_damage|post-mint damage]]}}
{{defn|Damage or alternation to a coin that occurs after minting. May be mistaken for a true error coin.}}

{{term|[[privy mark]]}}
{{defn|A small mark, often hidden, on a coin, traditionally to indicate the mintmaster or moneyer.}}

{{term|proclamation coins}}
{{defn|Coins declared {{gli|legal tender}} even though they are not issued by the sovereign, but by another sovereign.}}

[[Image:United States penny, obverse, 2002.png|thumb|right|150px|2002 [[Penny (U.S. coin)|Lincoln cent]], {{gli|obverse}}, '''{{gli|proof}}''' with {{gli|cameo}}]]
{{term|[[Proof coinage|proof]]}}
{{defn|Coins specially struck for collectors using polished {{gli|die|dies}} and {{gli|planchet|planchets}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> The resulting coins usually have a mirror {{gli|field}} and raised areas are frosted in appearance.}}

{{term|proof set}}
{{defn|A set of {{gli|proof}} coins packaged and sold by the mint.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|punch mark}}
{{defn|A coin struck from "punching" the coin with symbols or a seal, e.g. five punch marked coins of ancient India. Punch marks generally represent animals, tree, hills, and human figures. These coins were issued by royal authority and generally marked with banker's punches on the reverse.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==Q==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[Quarter (United States coin)|Quarter]]}}
{{defn|<small>(U.S.A./Canada)</small> A coin issued in the United States or Canada, worth $0.25 (twenty-five {{gli|cent|cents}}). Short for "Quarter Dollar".}}

{{term|[[Quarter Eagle]]}}
{{defn|<small>(U.S.A.)</small> A gold coin issued in the United States, worth $2.50 (two dollars and fifty {{gli|cent|cents}}).<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==R==
{{glossary}}
{{term|raw}}
{{defn|A coin that has not been {{gli|encapsulated coin|encapsulated}} by any coin grading service.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[Reeding|reeded edge]]}}
{{defn|See ''{{gli|milled edge}}''.}}

{{term|relief}}
{{defn|The part of the coin's design that is raised above the {{gli|field}}, opposite of {{gli|incuse}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|re-strike}}
{{defn|A coin struck from genuine {{gli|die|dies}} at a date later than the original issue.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> Some of the 1804 U.S. Silver Dollars were re-strikes.}}

{{term|repunched date}}
{{defn|A coin variety on which the puncheon with which the date is applied to the {{gli|hub}} has been used a second time, often to cover a first, failed attempt.}}

{{term|[[Obverse and reverse|reverse]]}}
{{ghat|Also abbreviated '''{{not a typo|℞}}''',<ref name="Sear"/> <s>𐅀𐅁</s><ref name="Edwards"/> or '''rev.'''<ref name="Berman"/>}}
{{defn|The back or "tails" side of a coin. The opposite of {{gli|obverse}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|reverse proof}}
{{defn|A {{gli|proof}} coin that has its {{gli|field|fields}} frosted and the design and lettering with a mirror finish. Standard proof coins have the fields mirrored and the design and lettering frosted.}}

{{term|[[Rim (coin)|rim]]}}
{{defn|The raised portion of the design along the edge that protects the coin from wear.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> It also makes the coins stackable and easy to roll by machine.}}

{{term|round}}
{{defn|A round, one-ounce {{gli|bullion}} piece, generally issued privately.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==S==
{{glossary}}
{{term|series}}
{{defn|A set of years in which a coin was minted with a specific design and [[Denomination (currency)|denomination]].<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|scruple}}
{{defn|One Roman scruple is equal to 1/24 Roman uncia; the modern (nominal) estimate of the weight of the Roman scruple is 1.125 grams.}}

{{term|[[seigniorage]]}}
{{defn|The difference between the {{gli|face value}} of a money and the cost to produce and distribute it. When a government issues new coinage, it earns the seigniorage in profit (or loss if negative).}}

{{term|silver dollar}}
{{defn|A one-dollar coin minted in the [[Dollar coin (United States)|United States]] until 1935, and in [[Canadian silver dollar|Canada]] until 1967. Dollar coins made after those dates are also sometimes called "silver dollars", although they are actually made of [[nickel]] or other metal. Dollar coins struck in Canada since 1987 are more commonly referred to as [[loonie]]s because of the loon design on the reverse.}}

{{term|slab}}
{{defn|The plastic case containing a coin that has been {{gli|grade|graded}} and {{gli|encapsulated coin|encapsulated}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[Spanish dollar]]}}
{{ghat|Also called a '''piece of eight'''.}} 
{{defn|A coin issued in Spain and its colonies from 1497 to 1864, equal to eight [[Spanish real|reales]]. It was {{gli|legal tender}} in the United States until 1857.}}

{{term|[[spot price]]}}
{{defn|In numismatics quoted market value of one troy ounce of a precious metal in {{gli|bullion}} form.}}

{{term|[[stainless steel]]}}
{{defn|An {{gli|alloy}} of [[iron]], [[carbon]] and another element, usually [[chromium]], that is resistant to [[rust]]ing. Coins struck on stainless steel are very durable and maintain their shiny appearance, but the hardness of the metal requires that the coins have a low {{gli|relief}} in order to prolong {{gli|die}} life.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==T==
{{glossary}}
[[Image:Bbp.jpg|right|thumb|125px|A rare and historic [[Bechuanaland]] Border Police canteen '''{{gli|token}}''']]
{{term|[[Token coin|token]]}}
{{defn|A privately issued piece that has redeemable value for goods or services but is not an official government coin.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> An example is a subway token.}}

{{term|[[tombac]]}}
{{defn|A [[brass]] {{gli|alloy}} that was used to make [[Nickel (Canadian coin)|Canadian 5-cent]] coins in 1942 and 1943, during which there was a shortage of the usual [[nickel]] due to [[World War II]]. A shortage of [[copper]] forced a switch to [[chromium]]-plated steel in 1944.}}

{{term|[[trade dollar]]}}
{{defn|{{gli|silver dollar|Silver dollar}} issued specifically for trade with a foreign country.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|truncation}}
{{defn|The sharply cut off bottom edge of a portrait or bust.<ref name="Yeoman74" /> The coin engraver's initials are often found on the truncation.}}

{{term|type}}
{{defn|A coin's basic distinguishing design.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|type set}}
{{defn|One of each coin of a particular design, series, or time period.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==U==
{{glossary}}
{{term|uncirculated}}
{{defn|A coin that has never been used, thus retaining all or most of its original {{gli|luster}}.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|[[uniface (numismatics)|uniface]]}}
{{defn|A coin struck with the design on one side only.}}

{{term|union}}
{{defn|A proposed United States gold coin worth $100 (one hundred dollars). Only one pattern "half union" is known to exist. Platinum $100 coins are not technically "unions".}}

{{term|unique}}
{{defn|An item of which only one is known to exist.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}

{{term|upset}}
{{defn|A coin struck on which the {{gli|obverse}} and {{gli|reverse}} are out of {{gli|coin alignment|alignment}}.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==V==
{{glossary}}
{{term|variety}}
{{defn|Fine details of a coin's design which set it apart from the normal issue. Varieties arise as a result of intended ({{gli|die variety}}) or unintended 
({{gli|mint-made error}}) alterations to the basic coin design that occur during the {{gli|die}} production stage.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==Y==
{{glossary}}
{{term|year set}}
{{defn|A set of coins for any specific year containing one of each [[Denomination (currency)|denomination]] of that year.<ref name="Yeoman74" />}}
{{glossaryend}}

==Z==
{{glossary}}
{{term|[[zinc]]}}
{{defn|A grey, inexpensive metal, usually alloyed with [[copper]] to make [[brass]] coins, but also used in pure form for emergency coinage when the usual coinage metal is not available due to war or other serious crisis. Much of the coinage struck in Nazi-occupied Europe was [[tin]]-plated zinc.}}
{{glossaryend}}

==See also==
{{portal|Numismatics}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==Bibliography==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070407202738/http://coinworld.com/scripts/GlossaryResults.asp?FL=All Coin World Glossary] (7 April 2007)
* [http://www.dictionary.com Dictionary.com]
* ''[[A Guide Book of United States Coins]]'' by [[R.S. Yeoman]] {{ISBN|0-7948-1790-4}}
* ''2005 Blackbook Price Guide to United States Paper Money'' {{ISBN|1-4000-4839-7}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070219215654/http://www.numismatics.org/dpubs/termsandmethods/ "Numismatic Terms and Methods" from the American Numismatic Society] (archived 19 February 2007)
* ''The Complete Illustrated Guide to Coins & Coin Collecting'' by Dr. James Mackay, {{ISBN|0-681-45952-2}}.

{{DEFAULTSORT:Glossary Of Numismatics}}
[[Category:Glossaries of collecting|Numismatics]]
[[Category:Numismatics]]
[[Category:Wikipedia glossaries using description lists]]