Glossary

  • 10 MilA unit of measurement to describe a width or length of 1/100 of an inch, usually referring to the thickness of metal plating on a medal or coin.
  • About Good
    The grade AG-3. The grade for a coin that is just below good. On an About Good coin, only the main features of it are present. Date, mintmark, peripheral lettering, or other features sometimes are partially worn away.
  • About UncirculatedAlternate term for Almost Uncirculated.
  • AbrasionsAreas of a coin where another coin or a foreign object has displaced metal in an abraded fashion.
  • Accumulation A grouping of a particular date, type, or series. Example: an accumulation of Morgan Dollars. A random grouping of coins, often as a monetary hoard. Opposite of a coin collection.
  • Adjustment marksScratches which appear mostly on pre-1807 silver and gold coinage. These scratches are actually file marks, made at the mint in order to reduce the weight of a coin so that its metal value wouldn't exceed its face value. As a rule, adjustment marks do not reduce the value of a coin nearly as(...)
  • AGAcronym for About Good.
  • Album frictionA less severe instance of album slide marks. Album friction shows as slight rubbing on the high points.
  • Album slide marksLines (often parallel) imparted to the surface of a coin by the plastic "slide" of an album, mostly found on proof coins.
  • AlloyA mixture of two or more metals
  • Almost UncirculatedThe grades AU50, 53, 55, and 58. These coins often look Uncirculated at first glance, but closer inspection will reveal slight friction or rub.
  • AlterationA coin that has a date, mintmark, or other feature that has been altered, added, or removed, usually to simulate a rarer issue.
  • Altered surfacesCleaning or other impairment that renders a coin less desirable to collectors.
  • American Numismatic AssociationThe world's largest organization of coin collectors and dealers. It is a non-profit organization, chartered by an Act of Congress in 1912. Membership is highly recommended. If you are not a member, you should be! Write to them at: 818 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80901.
  • ANAAcronym for the "American Numismatic Association."
  • ANACS - (American Numismatic Association Certification Service)ANACS originated by offering authentication, and later provided grading services. The grading service and acronym were sold by the ANA and now operate under this name as a third-party grading service.
  • ANACS certificateA uniquely numbered opinion of authenticity and/or grade from the ANA Certification Service.
  • AncientsTerm for coins of the world struck circa 600 B.C. to circa 450 A.D.
  • ANEAcronym for American Numismatic Information Exchange. NGC and PCGS certified coins trade sight-unseen through this electronic network system.
  • AnnealingThe heating (and cooling) of a die or planchet to soften the metal before preparation of the die or striking of the coin.
  • Anvil dieThe lower, stationary die. The reverse is usually the anvil die, although on some issues with striking problems, the obverse was employed as the lower die. Because of the physics of minting, the fixed lower-die impression is slightly better struck than the upper-die impression.
  • ArrowsDesign element usually found in the left (viewer's right) claw of the eagle seen on many US coins.
  • Arrows and raysTerm referring to 1853 quarters and half dollars. The rays were removed in 1854 because of striking difficulties created by the busy design.
  • Arrows at dateTerm referring to the arrows to the left and right of the date. These were added to the dies to indicate a weight increase or decrease.
  • Artificial toningColor added to the surface of a coin by heat and/or chemicals.
  • AskThe lowest current asking price of a particular coin issue and grade offered for sale.
  • AssayTo analyze and determine the purity of metal
  • AttributesThe elements that make up a coin's grade. The primary attributes include marks (hairlines for Proofs), luster, strike, and eye appeal.
  • AUAcronym for About (Almost) Uncirculated.
  • AuctionAn offering of coins or other items for sale where the buyer must bid against other potential buyers with no set price. This is in contrast with ordering from a catalog, price list, or advertisement at an advertised price.
  • Authentication The process of determining genuineness.
  • Bag
    A generic term for the cloth sacks used to transport and store coins. These came into use in the mid-nineteenth century and replaced wooden kegs. Also refers to the quantity of coins of a particular denomination found in a bag (such as 5000 cents or 1000 silver dollars).
  • Bag marksAbrasions which occur on coins that were shipped in mint bags. Most often this term applies to silver dollars, although virtually any coin can have bag marks. Bag marks in no way mean that a coin is not mint state. In fact, even a coin graded Mint State-67 or higher could have some bag marks.
  • Bag toningColoring acquired from the bag while a coin was stored. Cloth coin bags contained sulfur and other metal-reactive chemicals. When stored in bags for extended periods, coins in close proximity to the cloth often acquire beautiful red, yellow, blue and other vibrant colors. Sometimes the weave(...)
  • Barber coinageCommon name for the Charles Barber designed Liberty Head dimes, quarters, and half dollars struck during the 1890s and early 1900s.
  • Basal stateThe condition of a coin that is identifiable only as to date, mintmark (if present), and type; one-year-type coins may not have a date visible.
  • Basal valueThe value base on which Dr. William H. Sheldon's 70-point grade/price system started. The lowest-grade price was one dollar ($1) for the 1794 large cent - upon which he based his system.
  • Baseball cap coinSlang for a Pan-Pac commemorative gold dollar coin. The figure on this coin wears a cap similar to a baseball cap.
  • BasiningThe process of polishing a die to create a mirrored surface or to remove clash marks or other damage from a die.
  • Beaded borderSmall round devices around the edge of a coin, often seen on early U.S. coins.
  • BG GoldTerm sometimes applied to California fractional gold coins as documented in the Breen-Gillio reference work California Pioneer Fraction Gold.
  • Bi-MetallicA coin comprised of two different metals, bonded together
  • BidThe highest price offered to buy a particular coin issue and grade either on a trading network, pricing newsletter, or other medium.
  • Bidder A dealer issuing a quotation on an electronic trading system. A participant in an auction.
  • BlankAnother word for planchet, the blank piece of metal on which a coin design is stamped
  • BlendedA term applied to an element of a coin (date, design, lettering, etc.) that is worn into another element or the surrounding field.
  • BluebookA blue-cover, wholesale pricing book for United States coins.
  • BluesheetSynonym for the Certified Coin Dealer Newsletter.
  • BNShort for Brown; refers to copper coins.
  • Body bag
    Slang term for a coin returned from a grading service in a plastic sleeve within a flip. The coin referred to is deemed a "no-grade" and is not graded or encapsulated. Coins are no-grades for a number of reasons, including questionable authenticity, polishing, cleaning, and/or repair.
  • BourseThe Paris stock exchange. This term has come to be synonymous with coin show.
  • Bourse floorThe physical area where a coin show takes place.
  • Braided HairStyle of hair on half cents and large cents from 1840 on. The hair is pulled back into a tight bun drawn with a braided hair cord.
  • Branch mintOne of the various subsidiary government facilities that struck, or still strikes, coins.
  • Breast feathersThe central feathers of eagle designs, particularly Morgan dollars. Fully struck coins typically command a premium and the breast feathers are usually the highest point of the reverse.
  • BreenThe late Walter Breen.
  • Breen BookSlang for Walter Breen's Complete Encyclopedia of U.S. and Colonial Coins. It was published in 1988.
  • Breen-GillioNumbering system base on the book California Pioneer Fraction Gold by Walter Breen and Ron Gillio.
  • Breen letterA written or typed document by Walter Breen rendering his opinion on a particular numismatic item. Prior to 3rd party certification, this was a common method collectors and dealers used to authenticate a unique item.
  • Brilliant ProofA particular type of proof coin that has a full mirror surface in the fields.
  • Brilliant UncirculatedA generic term for any coin that has not been in circulation.
  • BronzeAn alloy of copper and tin; special types also contain other elements.
  • BrownThe term applied to a copper coin that no longer has the red color of copper. It is abbreviated as BN when used as part of a grade or description.
  • BUAcronym for Brilliant Uncirculated.
  • BU rollsWrapped coins (usually in paper) in specific quantities for each denomination. Cents are quantity 50, nickels quantity 40, dimes quantity 50, quarters quantity 40, half-dollars and dollars 20, etc.
  • Buckled dieA warped or distorted die. Can be caused by excess clashing. Often produces coins which are slightly bent.
  • Buffalo nickelSlang for the Indian Head nickel, struck from 1913 to 1938. The animal depicted is an American Bison.
  • Bulged dieA die with a small indentation, formed from clashing. Results in "bulged" coins.
  • Bullet saleA trademark of Heritage Numismatic Auctions, referring to a public auction model with an exceptionally short lead-time between the consignment deadline and the sale date.
  • Bullet toningSee Target toning.
  • BullionIngots, coins, or other issues that trade for their intrinsic metal value. Only precious metals (silver, gold, platinum, and palladium) are included as bullion. Copper could also technically be considered as bullion.
  • Bullion coinA legal tender coin that trades at a slight premium to its value as plain metal.
  • Burn markSee Counting machine mark.
  • BurnishingA process in which the surfaces of a coin or a planchet are shined through rubbing or polishing. This term has both a positive and a negative context: In a positive sense, Proof planchets are burnished before they are struck. The procedure was done originally by rubbing wet sand across the(...)
  • Burnishing linesLines resulting from burnishing. Typically seen on open-collar Proofs and almost never observed on close-collar Proofs.
  • BurntSlang term for a coin that has been over-dipped. On such a coin, the surfaces are dull and lackluster.
  • Business strikeA coin which was struck for use in general circulation, as opposed to a proof coin produced strictly for collector purposes.
  • BustA portrait on a coin, usually including the head, neck and upper shoulders
  • Bust dollarSlang term for silver dollars struck from 1795 through 1803.
  • Buyer's PremiumA "Buyer's Premium" is charged in addition to the successful bid according to the rate defined in our terms and conditions.
  • CMintmark indicating coins struck at the Charlotte, North Carolina branch Mint.
  • C-MintTerm applied to the gold coins struck at the Charlotte, North Carolina branch Mint. This Mint only struck gold coins from its opening in late 1837 until it was seized by the Confederacy. (Coins struck in late 1837 were actually dated 1838.)
  • Cabinet frictionSlight friction seen on coins (usually the obverse) that were stored in wooden cabinets used by early collectors. To compound the problem, a soft cloth was often used to wipe dust away, causing light hairlines.
  • CACThe initials stand for Certified Acceptance Corporation, a company which reviews coins that are already graded and encapsulated by a third-party grading service. If the coin meets CAC's standards as high-end for the assigned grade, it will receive a green CAC sticker.
  • CAMAbbreviation for Cameo.
  • CameoA proof, or prooflike coin with exceptional contrast between the fields and the devices. On a cameo coin, the fields are mirrorlike, while the devices give a frosty appearance.
  • CanadianTerm for coins and other numismatic items of Canada. (as in, "Got any Canadian?")
  • Canadian silverSlang term for the silver coins of Canada.
  • Cap BustAlternate term for Capped Bust
  • Capped BustA term describing any of the various representations of the head of Miss Liberty depicted on certain early 1807-1839 U.S. coins by a bust with a floppy cap. The design is attributed to John Reich.
  • Capped dieAn error in which a coin gets jammed in the coining press and remains for successive strikes. Eventually a "cap" is formed on either the upper or lower die. These are sometimes spectacular, with the cap often many times taller than a normal coin.
  • Carbon spotA dark discoloration on the surface of a coin. It is possible that this discoloration is caused by a planchet imperfection prior to striking, or it may be caused by improper storage of the coin. Regardless of the cause, carbon spots are often difficult, if not impossible, to remove without(...)
  • Carson CityThe United States branch Mint located in Carson City, Nevada that struck coins from 1870 through 1885 and later from 1889 through 1893.
  • CartwheelAn effect caused by the natural lustre on most mint state, and on some proof coins. When the coin is tilted back and forth, beams of light seem to circle the central devices of the coin. Also a slang term for Silver Dollar.
  • Cast blanksPlanchets that are molded, rather than cut from strips of metal.
  • Cast counterfeitA replica of a genuine coin created by making molds of the obverse and reverse, then casting base metal in the molds. A seam is usually visible on the edge unless it has been ground down.
  • Castaing machineA machine invented by French engineer Jean Castaing that added the edge lettering and devices to early U.S. coins before they were struck. Castaing machines were used until the introduction of close collar dies, which applied the edge device during the striking process.
  • CCMintmark used to indicate coins struck at the Carson City, Nevada branch Mint.
  • CCDNAcronym for Certified Coin Dealer Newsletter. Address: PO Box 11099, Torrance, CA
  • CCEAcronym for Certified Coin Exchange
  • CDNAcronym for Coin Dealer Newsletter
  • CensusA compilation of the known specimens of a particular numismatic item.
  • CentA denomination valued at one-hundredth of a dollar, struck by the U.S. Mint.
  • Certified Coin Dealer NewsletterA weekly newsletter that reports the trading ranges of nearly all U.S. coins.
  • Certified Coin ExchangeThe bid/ask real-time coin trading and quotation system owned by the American Teleprocessing Company.
  • Chain CentThe popular name for the Flowing Hair Chain cent of 1793, the first coins struck in the newly occupied Mint building.
  • Chapman Proof1921 Morgan dollar Proofs supposedly struck for coin dealer Henry Chapman, having cameo devices and deeply mirrored surfaces like most Morgan dollar Proofs.
  • CharlotteThe United States branch Mint located in Charlotte, North Carolina that only struck gold coins from 1838 until its seizure by the Confederacy in 1861. It never reopened as a mint after the Civil War, although it did serve as an official assay office from 1867 until 1913.
  • ChasingA method used by forgers to create a mintmark on a coin. Chasing involves heating the surfaces and moving the metal to form a mintmark.
  • ChoiceAn adjective which the A.N.A. applies to coins of MS-65 or Proof-65 grade. Many dealers apply the term to the MS/Proof-63 coins, and call MS/Proof-65 coins "Gem".
  • Choice UncAbbreviation for Choice Uncirculated.
  • Choice UncirculatedAn Uncirculated coin in grade MS-63 or MS-64.
  • CirculatedA term applied to a coin that has wear, ranging from slight rubbing to heavy wear.
  • CirculationA term applied to coins that have been spent in commerce.
  • Circulation strikeA coin meant for commerce. An alternate term for Business Strike or Regular Strike.
  • CladA term used to describe any of the modern "sandwich" coins that have layers of both copper and nickel.
  • Clad bagUsually applied to a $1,000 bag of 40% silver half-dollars although it also could apply to any bag of "sandwich" coins.
  • Clad CoinageCoins that have a core and outer layer made of different metals. Since 1965, all circulating U.S. dimes, quarters, half dollars, and dollars have been clad
  • Clash marksThe images of the dies seen on coins struck from clashed dies.
  • Clashed diesExtraneous design detail often appears on a die as a result of two dies coming together without a planchet between them during the minting process. Coins struck from such dies are said to be struck from clashed dies, or to have die clashes or clash marks.
  • Classic EraTerm for the period from 1792 through 1964 when silver and gold coins of the United States were issued for circulation. (Gold coins were only minted until 1933.)
  • Classic HeadAn image of Miss Liberty that depicts the style of a Roman or Greek athlete wearing a ribbon around the hair.
  • CleanedWhen a coin has been cleaned with baking soda or other mild abrasives, it may have a slightly washed out appearance. If the lustre or color of a coin appears even the slightest bit unnatural as a result of past cleaning, the coin is usually described as "cleaned" when catalogued for sale.
  • Cleaning CoinsDO NOT CLEAN YOUR COINS! Just like any antique piece of furniture, or painting, the original surfaces of a coin are much more desirable by collectors than altered or damaged surfaces. As a result, cleaned coins are worth significantly less money than wholly original coins. Even though a coin(...)
  • ClipSlang term for a coin struck from a clipped planchet.
  • ClippedTerm for an irregularly cut planchet. A clip can be straight or curved, depending upon where it was cut.
  • Clogged dieA die that has a contaminant lodged in the recessed areas. Coins struck from a clogged die will have diminished or even missing detail.
  • Closed collarAlternate term for close collar
  • Cohen varietyA die variety for half cents, denoted as C-1, C-2a, etc.
  • CoinMetal formed into a disk of standardized weight and stamped with a standard design to enable it to circulate as money authorized by a government body.
  • Coin collectionA grouping of coins assembled for fun or profit.
  • Coin collectorAn individual who accumulates coins in a methodical manner.
  • Coin Dealer NewsletterA weekly newsletter that reports the wholesale trading ranges of nearly all U.S. coins.
  • Coin frictionTerm applied to the area resulting when coins rub together in rolls or bags and small amounts of metal are displaced.
  • Coin showAn exchange composed of coin dealers displaying their items for sale and trade.
  • Coin WorldA leading weekly numismatic publication established in 1960.
  • CoinageThe issuance of metallic money of a particular country.
  • COINageMonthly numismatic magazine.
  • Coins MagazineMonthly numismatic periodical
  • CollarA metal piece that restrains the expanding metal of a planchet during striking
  • Collector Technologies, Inc.Corporate entity that owns and operates AbaCoin.com. Based in Belmont, MA.
  • CommemSynonym for "commemorative."
  • CommemorativeCoins issued to honor some person (D. Boone), place (Mount Rushmore), or event (Special Olympics) and, in many instances, to raise funds for activities related to the theme. Sometimes called NCLT (non-circulating legal tender) commemoratives.
  • Commercial gradeA synonym for Market Grade.
  • Commercial strikeA synonym for regular strike or business strike.
  • CommonA numismatic issue that is readily available. Since this is a relative term, no firm number can be used as an exact cut-off point between common and scarce.
  • Common dateA particular issue within a series that is readily available. No exact number can be used to determine which coins are common dates as this is relative to the mintage of the series.
  • Complete setA term for all possible coins within a series, all types, or all coins from a particular branch Mint. For example, a complete gold type set would include examples of all types from 1795 until 1933.
  • ConditionThe state of preservation of a particular numismatic item.
  • Condition CensusA listing of the finest known examples of a particular issue. There is no fixed number of coins in a Condition Census.
  • Condition rarityA term to indicate a common coin that is rare when found in high grades.
  • Consensus gradingThe process of evaluating the condition of a coin by using multiple graders.
  • ConservedNumismatic conservation involves examination, scientific analysis, and a reliance upon an extensive base of numismatic knowledge to determine the nature of a coin's state of preservation and the extent of any damage. Conservation also encompasses appropriate procedures to protect the coin's(...)
  • Contact marksMarks on a coin that are caused by contact with another coin or a foreign object. These are generally small, compared to other types of marks such as gouges.
  • Contemporary counterfeitA coin, usually base metal, struck from crude dies and made to pass for legal tender at the time of creation. Sometimes such counterfeits are collected along with the genuine coins, particularly in the case of American Colonial issues.
  • Continental dollars"Dollars" struck in pewter (scarce), brass (rare), copper (extremely rare) and silver (extremely rare) that are dated 1776, but likely struck sometime later. Certain Benjamin Franklin sketches inspired the design.
  • Copper-nickelThe alloy (copper 88%, nickel 12%) used for small cents from 1856 through mid-1864. These were called white cents during the period because of their pale color compared to the earlier red cents.
  • Copper spotA spot or stain seen on gold coinage, indicating an area of copper concentration that has oxidized. Copper spots or stains can range from tiny dots to large blotches.
  • CoppersSlang for pre-Federal copper, half cents, and large cents, minted through 1857.
  • CopyAny reproduction, fraudulent or otherwise, of a coin.
  • Copy diesDies made at a later date, usually showing slight differences from the originals. Also used to denote counterfeit dies copied directly from a genuine coin.
  • Coronet HeadAlternate name for Braided Hair design by Christian Gobrecht. This is sometimes also called the Liberty Head design.
  • CorrosionDamage which occurs on the surface of some coins, generally due to improper storage. Corrosion is caused when a chemical reaction, such as rust, actually eats into the metal.
  • CostThe price paid for a numismatic item.
  • CounterfeitLiterally, a coin that is not genuine. The term is applied to cast and struck counterfeits as well as issues with altered dates or added mintmarks.
  • Counting machine markA dense patch of lines caused by the rubber wheel of a counting machine. Caused when the wheel spacing was insufficient for the selected coin.
  • CudAn area of a coin struck by a die that has a complete break across part of its surface. A cud may be either retained, where the faulty piece of the die is still in place, or full, where the piece of the die has fallen away.
  • Cupro-nickelAny alloy of copper and nickel.
  • CurrencyAny kind of money – coins or paper money – that’s used as a medium of exchange
  • DMintmark used to identify coins struck at the Dahlonega, Georgia branch Mint from 1838 through 1861 or the Denver, Colorado Mint from 1906 forward.
  • D-MintTerm used for the coinage of the branch Mints in Dahlonega, Georgia, or Denver, Colorado.
  • DahlonegaThe branch Mint located in Dahlonega, Georgia that struck gold coins from 1838 until 1861 when it was seized by the Confederacy.
  • DateThe numerals on a coin representing the year in which it was struck. Restrikes (see Restrike) are made in years subsequent to the one that appears on them.
  • DCAMAbbreviation for Deep Cameo.
  • DealerSomeone who's occupation is buying, selling, and trading numismatic material.
  • Deep CameoTerm applied to coins, usually Proofs and prooflike coins that have deeply frosted devices and lettering that contrast with the mirror fields.
  • Deep mirror prooflikeAny coin that has deeply reflective mirror-like fields. While a general term, it is especially applicable for Morgan dollars.
  • DenominationThe value assigned by a government to a specific coin.
  • DenticlesThe tooth-like projections which make up the inner rim on some coins. They were discontinued on most U.S. coins in the early twentieth century.
  • DentilsAlternative term for denticles.
  • DesignThe motif of a coin or other numismatic item. Barber coins and Washington quarters are examples of designs.
  • Design typeA specific motif placed upon coinage, which may be used for several denominations and subtypes.
  • DesignationAn addition to the grade of a coin to denote characteristics of the coin not covered by the coin's grade. A designation may refer to the coin's color, strike, or overall appearance. All copper coins have a color designation, but other coins may not have a designation at all, even if one is(...)
  • Designer
    The individual responsible for creating a particular motif used on a numismatic series.
  • DeviceAny specific design element. Often refers to the principal design element.
  • Device punchA steel rod with a raised device on the end used to punch the element into a working die. This technique was used before hubbed dies were used as a standard.
  • DieA steel rod that is engraved, punched, or hubbed with the date, lettering, devices, and other emblems used to strike a coin.
  • Die alignmentTerm to indicate the relative position of the obverse and reverse dies.
  • Die breakAn area of a coin that is the result of a broken die.
  • Die cracksRaised lines, which appear on a coin as a result of that coin having been struck by a cracked die.
  • Die lineRaised lines, which appear on a coin as a result of polish lines on the die.
  • Die rustPitting or roughness appearing on a coin as a result of that coin having been struck by a rusted die.
  • Die stateA readily identified point in the life of a coinage die. Dies go through a lifecycle - clashing, being polished, cracking, breaking, etc. These are called die states. Some die varieties have gone through barely distinguishable die states, while others display multiple distinctive ones.
  • Die striationsRaised lines on coins that were struck with polished dies.
  • Die trialThe test striking of a particular die in a different metal.
  • Die varietyA coin which has already been attributed by date, denomination, mintmark, and major variety (such as Morgan Dollar, 1879-S, Reverse of '78) can often still be identified by die variety. Research has been done in many series assigning numbers to the various combinations of dies known to have(...)
  • Die wearThe loss of detail on a coin due to wear on the die used to strike it (rather than wear on the coin itself).
  • DimeThe denomination, one tenth of a dollar, issued since 1796 by the United States.
  • DingSlang for a small- to medium-sized mark on a coin.
  • DippedA coin which has been cleaned in a soap solution, the most popular of which is called Jewel Luster, is said to have been dipped. The term "dipped" is not necessary in, say, a catalog description of a coin, unless the dipping has caused noticeable dulling of lustre, or an otherwise unnatural(...)
  • Dipping solutionAny of the commercial cleaners or "dips"on the market, usually acid-based.
  • DismeThe original spelling of dime. It is thought to have been have been pronounced to rhyme with ream (the s being silent). This spelling was used in Mint documents until the 1830s and was officially changed by the Coinage Act of 1837.
  • DMPLAbbreviation for Deep Mirror Prooflike. An exceptionally deep mirror-like prooflike coin with little, if any, cartwheel lustre. Also see: DPL.
  • DoctoredTypically considered a derogatory term. A doctored coin has been enhanced by chemical or other means.
  • DollarA denomination consisting of one hundred cents authorized by the Mint Act of 1792. This is the anglicized spelling of the European Thaler and was used because of the worldwide acceptance of the Thaler and the Spanish Milled dollar (or piece-of-eight).
  • Double EagleLiterally two eagles, or twenty dollars. A twenty-dollar U.S. gold coin issued from 1850 through 1932.
  • Double-struckA condition that results when a coin is not ejected from a die and is struck a second time (hence double-struck). Triple-struck coins and other multiple strikings also are known. Proofs are usually intentionally double-struck in order to sharpen their details; this is sometimes visible under(...)
  • Double(d) dieA die that has been struck more than one time by a hub in misaligned positions, resulting in doubling of design elements. If shifting occurs in the alignment between a hub and a die, the die will have some of its features doubled. This doubling is then imparted to every coin it strikes. The(...)
  • Draped BustThe design of Miss Liberty with a drape across her bust. This is attributed to Mint engraver Robert Scot, who presumably copied the design after a portrait by Gilbert Stuart.
  • Drift markAn area on a coin, often rather long, that appears streaky or discolored. This is the result of impurities or foreign matter in the dies.
  • DullTerm for a numismatic item that lacks luster. Dulling may be the result of natural or artificial conditions.
  • EACAbbreviation for Early American Coppers
  • EagleA gold coin with a face value of ten dollars. Along with the dollar, the eagle was the basis of the U.S. currency system from 1792 through 1971.
  • Early American Coppers (Club)A club dedicated to advancing the study of pre-1857 United States copper coinage including Colonials.
  • EDAcronym for environmental damage.
  • EdgeThe third side of a coin. It may be reeded, ornamented, or plain.
  • Edge deviceLetters or emblems on the edge of a coin. Examples would be the stars and lettering on the edge of Saint-Gaudens double eagles.
  • EFAcronym for Extremely Fine
  • ElectrotypeA duplicate coin created by the electrolytic method, where metal is deposited into a mold made from the original. The obverse and reverse metal shells are then filled with metal and fused together. The edges are then sometimes filed smooth to obscure the seam.
  • ElementsThe various devices and emblems seen on coins.
  • EliasbergShort for Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., who was the only collector ever to assemble a complete collection of United States coins.
  • Emission sequenceThe order in which die states are struck. Also, the die use sequence for a particular issue.
  • EngraverThe person responsible for the design and/or punches used to craft a coin.
  • Envelope toningColoration that results from storage in small manila "coin envelopes". Most paper envelopes contain reactive chemicals.
  • Environmental damageCorrosion-effect seen on a coin that has been exposed to the elements. The damage may range from minor dulling to severe pitting.
  • Eroded dieSynonym for a worn die.
  • ErrorAn improperly produced coin, overlooked in production, and later released into circulation
  • Essai
    Term for trial or pattern strikings. The anglicized version is essay and literally means a test or trial.
  • ExpertA specialist in a particular numismatic area. (i.e. A gold expert, a Morgan Dollar expert, a CC-Mint expert, etc.)
  • Extra FineAlternate term for Extremely Fine.
  • Extremely FineTerm for the grades EF40 and EF45.
  • Extremely High ReliefThe 1907 double eagle issue designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The coin had so much depth that multiple punches from a powerful press were required to fully bring up the detail. Because of this difficulty, the design was lowered, resulting in the High Relief. This too was lowered to create(...)
  • Eye appealThe aesthetic effect a coin has on its viewer. Although quite subjective, like any form of art, that which constitutes eye appeal is generally agreed upon by most experienced numismatists.
  • FAbbreviation for Fine
  • Face ValueThe sum for which a coin can be spent or exchanged (a dime’s face value is 10¢) as opposed to its collector or precious metal value
  • FairThe grade FR-2.
  • FakeA counterfeit or altered coin.
  • Fantasy pieceA term applied to coins struck at the whim of Mint officials. Examples include the various 1865 Motto and 1866 No Motto coins.
  • FascesTerm referring to the motif on the reverse of Mercury dimes. The design consists of a bundle of rods banded (wrapped) around an ax with a protruding blade. The designation "full bands" refers to fasces on which there is complete separation in the central bands across the rods.
  • Fat headTerm for the Small Size Capped Bust quarters and half eagles.
  • FBAcronym for Full Bands.
  • FBLAcronym for Full Bell Lines.
  • FHAcronym for Full Head.
  • Fiat currencyCoins or paper money that do not have metal value or are not backed by metal value.
  • FieldThe flat (or slightly curved) portion of a coin where there is no design.
  • FineTerm for the grades F-12 and F-15.
  • Finest knownThe best-known condition example of a particular numismatic item.
  • First shotTerm for the opportunity to buy a numismatic item before it is offered to others.
  • First strikeA coin struck early in the life of a die. First strikes can be characterized by striated or mirror-like fields if the die was polished. First strikes are almost always fully or well struck, with crisp detail.
  • FiveTerm for a five-dollar gold coin or half eagle.
  • Five IndianTerm for the Indian Head half eagles struck from 1908 to 1929.
  • Five Lib
    Term for the Liberty Head half eagles struck from 1839 until 1908.
  • Fixed price listA listing of items for sale at established prices.
  • Flat edgeTerm referring to the particular specimens of High Reliefs that do not have a wire edge.
  • Flat lusterA subdued type of gray or dull luster often seen on coins struck from worn dies.
  • Flip A clear, flexible plastic holder used to display and store coins. To quickly sell a recently purchased item - usually for a fast profit.
  • Flip rubDiscoloration, often only slight, on the highest points of a coin caused by contact with a flip.
  • Flow linesLines, sometimes visible, resulting from the metal flowing outward from the center of a planchet as it is struck. Cartwheel lustre is the result of light reflecting from flow lines.
  • Flowing HairThe design of Miss Liberty with long, flowing hair that is attributed to Mint engraver Robert Scot.
  • Flying EagleTerm for Flying Eagle Cent.
  • Flying Eagle CentThe small cent, struck in 88% copper and 12% nickel, that replaced the large cent.
  • Focal areaThe area of a coin to which a viewer's eye is drawn. Liberty's cheek is the focal point of the Morgan Dollar.
  • ForeignA numismatic item not from the United States.
  • Four-dollar gold pieceAn experimental issue, also known as a stella, struck in 1879-1880 as a pattern coin.
  • FPLAcronym for Fixed Price List.
  • FRAcronym for Fair.
  • FranklinSynonym for Franklin half-dollar.
  • Franklin half-dollarThe half-dollar struck from 1948 until 1963 designed by John Sinnock. The coin featured Ben Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse.
  • FrictionA disturbance which appears either on the high-points of a coin or in the fields, as a result of that coin rubbing against other objects. A coin is said to have friction when only the lustre is disturbed, and no actual wear of the metal is visible to the naked eye.
  • FrostAn effect seen on the raised parts of a coin whereby the metal appears crystallized.
  • Frosted devicesRaised elements on coins struck with treated dies to impart a crystallized appearance.
  • FSAcronym for Full Steps.
  • Fugio cents1787 one-cent coins that are considered by some to be the first regular issue U. S. coin. Since they were authorized by the Continental Congress, this would seem to be a logical assumption. However, Congress did not pass the Mint Act until 1792, so an argument for the half dismes (half-dimes)(...)
  • Full BandsAbbreviated as FB, this term is applied to Mercury (Winged Liberty Head) dimes when the central band is fully separated.
  • Full Bell LinesAbbreviated as FBL, this term is applied to Franklin half-dollars when the lower sets of bell lines are complete.
  • Full HeadAbbreviated as FH, this term is applied to Standing Liberty quarters when the helmet of the head has full detail.
  • Full StepsTerm applied to a Jefferson five-cent piece when 5½ or 6 steps of Monticello are present.
  • Full strikeA numismatic item that has full detail. The metal flows into all areas of the die.
  • FUN ShowThe annual convention sponsored by the Florida United Numismatists (FUN) held in early January. Considered by most dealers to be the best coin show of the year!
  • Galvano
    The large metal relief turned in a portrait lathe to become a steel hub.
  • GarrettTerm relating to the Garrett family. There were two main collectors, Thomas H. Garrett and John W. Garrett, who formed this extensive collection from the late 1800s through the early 1900s. It was later given to Johns Hopkins University and sold in five auction sales.
  • GemAn adjective that the A.N.A. applies to coins which grade Mint State or Proof-67. Most dealers, however, apply the adjective to any coin which they grade MS/Proof-65.
  • Gem BUSynonym for Gem Brilliant Uncirculated.
  • Gem UncSynonym for Gem Uncirculated.
  • Gem UncirculatedSee Gem.
  • GobrechtSynonym for "Gobrecht dollar."
  • Gobrecht dollarSilver dollars dated 1836, 1838, and 1839 struck in those years and later restruck. These are named for their designer, Christian Gobrecht, Chief Engraver from 1840 to 1844.
  • Gold commemSynonym for gold commemorative.
  • Gold commemorativeAny of the eleven gold coins struck from 1903 until 1926 to honor a person, place, or event. Also, any of the modern United States commemorative gold issues sometimes referred to as modern gold commems.
  • Gold dollarSmall coins of one-dollar denomination struck from 1849 until 1889.
  • GoodThe grades G-4 and G-6.
  • GradeThe numerical or adjectival condition of a coin. Rating which indicates how much a coin has worn from circulation.
  • GraderA person who evaluates the condition of coins.
  • GradingThe process of numerically quantifying the condition of a coin.
  • Greysheet A synonym for the Coin Dealer Newsletter.
  • HairThe area of a coin that represents hair and may be an important aspect of the grade.
  • HairlinesTiny lines or scratches on coins, usually caused by cleaning or polishing. Hairlines are found on virtually all proof coins, and are considered the most important single factor in grading high quality proof coins. They sometimes appear on business strikes as well. Hairlines tend to show up(...)
  • HalfSynonym for half-dollar.
  • Half centThe lowest-value coin denomination ever issued by the U. S., representing 1/200th of a dollar. Half cents were struck from 1793 until 1857.
  • Half dismeThe original spelling of half dime. The first United States regular issue was the 1792 half disme supposedly struck in John Harper's basement using the newly acquired Mint presses.
  • Half DollarThe denomination first struck in 1794 that is still issued today.
  • Half EagleLiterally, half the value of an Eagle. The Eagle was defined by the Mint Act of 1792 as equal to ten silver dollars.
  • Hammer dieThe upper die that is non-stationary. While usually the obverse, on some issues with striking problems, the reverse was employed as the hammer die.
  • HazeA cloudy film seen on business-strike coins and Proofs. It may occur naturally or be added.
  • Heraldic EagleAlso called the large eagle, this emblem of Liberty got its name because of its resemblance to the eagles of heraldry.
  • Heritage Value Index™The Heritage Value Index™ is based on recent wholesale and auction transactions for NGC and PCGS certified coins. Infrequently traded coins may therefore show outdated prices. These value ranges should not be considered an offer to buy or sell. Many factors go into pricing coins including(...)
  • High endA term applied to any coin at the upper end of a particular grade.
  • High ReliefA coin with deep concave fields, due to its design. High relief coins required extra pressure to be fully struck, and were difficult to stack. Therefore, the few coins struck in high relief by the U.S. Mint (such as the 1921 Peace dollar and the 1907 Roman Numerals double eagle) were each made(...)
  • HoardA group of coins held for either numismatic or monetary reasons.
  • Hoard coinA coin that exists, or existed, in a quantity held by an individual, organization, etc. Examples include Stone Mountain half dollars still held by the Daughters of the Confederacy.
  • HoarderAn individual who amasses a great quantity of a numismatic item.
  • Hobo nickelAn Indian Head (Buffalo) nickel which has been engraved with the portrait of a hobo or other character, often by a hobo. These are popular with some collectors and some are so distinctive that they have been attributed to particular "hoboes."
  • Holder toningAny toning acquired by a coin as a result of storage in a holder.
  • Hub Minting term for the steel device that is used to produce a die.
  • Impaired ProofA Proof coin that grades lower than PR-60.
  • Incomplete strikeA coin that is missing design detail because of a problem during the striking process. An incomplete strike may be due to insufficient striking pressure or improperly spaced dies.
  • IncuseOpposite of relief, the part of a coin’s design that is pressed into the surface
  • Incuse designThe intaglio design used on Indian Head quarter eagles and half eagles. The devices on these coins were recessed to try and deter counterfeiting and improve durability.
  • Independent Coin Grading Company (ICG)ICG is a grading service located in Englewood, CO.
  • Indian centSynonym for an Indian Head cent.
  • Indian Head centCents struck from 1859 until 1909 designed by James Longacre.
  • Indian Head eagleThe Saint-Gaudens designed ten-dollar gold coin struck from 1907 until 1933.
  • Indian pennySynonym for Indian Head cent.
  • IngotMetal cast into a particular shape; used in making coins
  • InscriptionWords stamped on a coin or medal
  • Intrinsic valueThe value of the metal(s) contained in a numismatic item. The United States issues contained their intrinsic value in metal until 1933 for gold coins and 1964 for silver coins. Modern U.S. coins are termed fiat currency.
  • Intrinsic Value (Bullion Value)Current market value of the precious metal in a coin
  • Iridescencent Probably the most desirable form of toning on a silver or nickel coin. Iridescent toning covers virtually all of the coin's surface, while still permitting all of the coin's natural lustre to shine through with its full intensity.
  • Jefferson nickel The five-cent coin struck beginning in 1938 through to this day. Felix Schlag was the designer.
  • Key DateA scarce date required to complete a collection, usually more difficult to find and afford
  • Knife edge Synonym for wire edge.
  • LaminationA form of planchet flaw caused by imperfections in the metal, whereby a thin strip of the metal separates itself from the coin.
  • Large centA large copper U.S. coin - issued from 1793 until 1857 - valued at one-hundredth of a dollar. It was later replaced by a much smaller cent made from a copper-nickel alloy.
  • Large dateTerm referring to the size of the digits of the date on a coin. The use of this term implies that a medium or small date exists for the coin or series.
  • Large EagleSynonym for Heraldic Eagle.
  • Large lettersTerm referring to the size of the lettering of the date on a coin. The use of this term implies that medium or small letters exist for the coin or series.
  • Large MottoSynonym for the 1864 two-cent coin with large lettering for the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST". Congress mandated this inscription for all coinage and it has been used on nearly every coin since that time.
  • Large sizeA term referring to the particular diameter of a coin in a series. The use of this term implies that there is a small size with the same motif.
  • LDAcronym for large date.
  • Legal TenderCoins, dollar bills or other currency issued by a government as official money
  • LegendAny phrase that appears on a coin. For example "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".
  • Lettered edgeA coin edge that displays an inscription or other design elements, rather than being plain or reeded.
  • LetteringThe alphabet characters used in creating legends, mottos, and other inscriptions on a coin.
  • LibTerm for Liberty Head. (i.e. a $10 Lib, a $20 Lib).
  • LibertyA symbolic figure used in many U.S. coin designs.
  • Liberty CapThe head of Miss Liberty, with a cap on a pole by her head. This design was used on certain U.S. half cents and large cents.
  • Liberty HeadThe design used on most U.S. gold coins from 1838 until 1908. Morgan dollars and Barber coinage are also sometimes referred to as Liberty Head coins.
  • Liberty SeatedThe motif featuring Miss Liberty seated on a rock first used on the Gobrecht dollars of 1836-1839. This design was used on nearly all regular issue silver coinage from 1837 through 1891.
  • LincolnSynonym for a Lincoln Head cent.
  • Lincoln centCent designed by Victor D. Brenner that was first issued in 1909 and continues through today, although the reverse design was changed to the Memorial Reverse in 1959.
  • Lincoln pennySynonym for Lincoln Head cent.
  • Lint markA characteristic that occurs mostly on proof coins as a result of a piece of lint on the die or planchet during the striking process. This lint creates an incused scratch-like mark on the coin. Lint marks are distinguishable from hairlines by their evenness of depth and lack of raised ridges(...)
  • LLAcronym for large letters.
  • Long BeachSynonym for the Long Beach Coin and Stamp Exhibition held in Long Beach, California, America's largest commercial coin show. This show is held three times a year, usually in February, June, and October.
  • LotA unique number assigned by an auction house to an item or items sold in a particular sale.
  • LoupeA magnifying glass used to examine coins.
  • LusterSynonym for lustre.
  • LustreThe brightness of a coin that results from the way in which it reflects light. Many different types of lustre exist, and one of the trickiest parts of the grading process is determining whether the lustre of a coin is artificial, natural as made, or diminished through wear, friction, cleaning,(...)
  • Lustrous A term used to describe a coin that still has its original mint bloom.
  • Major varietyA coin that is widely recognized as having a major difference from other coins of the same date, design, type, and mint.
  • Market gradeThe grade at which most reputable dealers and auction houses would offer an uncertified coin.
  • MarksImperfections acquired after a coin is struck.
  • Master dieThe main die produced from the master hub.
  • Master hubThe original hub created by the portrait lathe. Master dies are created from this hub.
  • Matte ProofA certain type of proof minted in the U.S. mostly from 1908 to 1916. Gold and silver matte proofs have a dull, granular (i.e. sandblasted) finish without any mirror-like qualities. Copper and nickel matte proofs are really more like Roman finish proofs.
  • MDAcronym for medium date.
  • MedalA metal object resembling a coin issued to recognize an event, place, person or group, with no stated value and not intended to circulate as money
  • Medal pressA high-pressure coining press acquired by the U.S. Mint, in the 1850s. It was used to strike medals, and other issues.
  • Medium dateTerm referring to the size of the digits of the date on a coin. The use of this term implies that a large or small date exists for the coin or series.
  • Medium lettersTerm referring to the size of the lettering on a coin. The use of this term implies that large or small letters exist for that coin or series.
  • Medium of ExchangeAnything that people agree has a certain value
  • MeltTerm for the intrinsic metal value of a coin.
  • Mercury dimeCommon name for the Winged Liberty Head dime issued from 1916 through 1945. (Also "Merc").
  • Metal stress linesRadial lines, sometimes visible, caused by metal flowing outward from the center of the planchet during the minting process.
  • MilA unit of measurement to describe length or width. Equals 1/1000 of an inch, usually referring to the thickness of metal plating on a medal or coin.
  • Milling markA series of two or more small nicks on a coin which result from contact with the reeded edge of another coin, usually in a mint bag. Milling marks are generally more detrimental to the grade than normal bagmarks, because of their severity of depth and greater visual impact.
  • Minor varietyA coin that has a minor difference from other coins of the same design, type, date, and mint.
  • MintA facility where coins of a country are manufactured under government authority.
  • Mint bloomOriginal lustre that is still visible on a coin.
  • Mint errorSee Error.
  • Mint LusterThe dull, frosty, or satiny shine found on uncirculated coins
  • Mint setA group of Uncirculated coins from a particular year, usually comprising coins from each Mint.
  • Mint set toningTerm referring to toning acquired by coins after years of storage in their original cardboard holders.
  • Mint StateDescribes a coin that has never been in circulation. Thus, the coin has no wear. A mint state coin may still be weakly struck, and therefore lack the detail of even a lower grade coin. All mint state coins have some imperfections if you study them hard enough. The term "Mint State" may also(...)
  • MintageThe number of coins of a particular date struck at a given mint during a specific year.
  • MintmarkLetter(s) stamped into a coin to denote the mint at which it was struck.
  • Mis-struck
    Term applied to "error coins" with striking irregularities.
  • Mishandled ProofA proof coin that somehow escaped into circulation or was otherwise significantly abused.
  • MLAcronym for medium letters.
  • MorganSynonym for Morgan dollar.
  • Morgan dollarTerm for the Liberty Head silver dollar struck from 1878 through 1904 and once again in 1921. George Morgan was only an assistant engraver, but his design for the dollar was selected over William Barber's.
  • Mottled toningSplotchy, uneven toning.
  • MottoAn inscription on a coin. The most popular being IN GOD WE TRUST, which first appeared on the 1864 two-cent piece and is now is required on all U.S. coinage.
  • MottoA word, sentence or phrase inscribed on a coin to express a guiding national principle, such as, “E Pluribus Unum” inscribed on all U.S. circulating coins is Latin for “out of many, one”
  • MSAcronym for Mint State.
  • MuleA coin or note with a mismatched obverse and reverse. This may mean different types, different denominations, or even different countries.
  • Multiple-struckSee Double-struck.
  • Mutilated A coin that has been damaged to the point where it no longer can be graded.
  • Mylar®Trademark for a polyester film used to store coins.
  • NewTerm for a coin that never has been in circulation.
  • New OrleansThe branch Mint established in 1838 in New Orleans, Louisiana. It struck coins for the United States until its seizure in 1861 by the Confederacy. (Some 1861-O half-dollars were struck after the seizure.) It reopened in 1879 and struck coins until 1909 (actually closed in 1910). Now this(...)
  • NGCAcronym for Numismatic Guaranty Corporation, located in Parsippany, NJ. Currently the leading coin grading service.
  • NGC Census ReportQuarterly publication issued by NGC listing the number of coins graded and their grade.
  • NickelPopular term for a five-cent piece.
  • No ArrowsTerm applied to coins without arrows by their dates during years when other coins had arrows by the date. (i.e. the 1853 Arrows half dime and the 1853 No Arrows half dime.)
  • No "CENTS" nickelLiberty Head nickels struck in 1883 without a denomination. The lack of a denomination was very confusing to the public and led to the "racketeer" nickel scandal.
  • No-gradeTerm applied to a coin returned from a third-party grading service that was not encapsulated. This can be due to questionable authenticity, cleaning, damage, or other reasons.
  • No MottoCoins struck without the motto, "IN GOD WE TRUST".
  • No StarsTerm referring to the Gobrecht-designed Liberty Seated coins without stars.
  • Not SoldThis indicates an item that did not sell at auction either because it did not receive bids equal to or greater than the reserve (minimum bid) amount set by the consignor, or because the sale was canceled.
  • Numerical gradingThe Sheldon 1-70 scale employed by NGC, PCGS, and other third-party grading services.
  • Numismatic Guaranty CorporationThe leading third-party grading service based in Parsippany, New Jersey.
  • Numismatic NewsA leading weekly coin newspaper established in 1952.
  • NumismaticsThe science of money. Coins, currency, tokens, inscribed bars, and all related items are numismatic.
  • NumismaticsThe study and collecting of things that are used as money, including coins, tokens, paper bills, and medals
  • Numismatist One who studies or collects money.
  • OMintmark used to signify coins struck at the New Orleans, Louisiana branch Mint.
  • O-MintTerm used for the coinage of the branch Mint in New Orleans, Louisiana.
  • ObsoleteA coin design or type that is no longer produced
  • ObverseThe front (heads side) of a coin.
  • OctSynonym for octagonal - the Pan-Pac octagonal commemorative fifty-dollar coin.
  • Off centerA coin struck on a blank that was not properly centered over the anvil, or lower, die.
  • Open collarA device used to position a planchet over the lower die. It was employed specifically for striking early U.S. coins whose edges had already been stamped with reeding or lettering.
  • Orange-peel surfacesDimpled fields seen on many Proof gold coins, and some Mint State gold dollars and $3 gold coins.
  • OriginalReferring to any aspect of a coin that retains its original state. Original toning means natural, not retoned or cleaned. Original lustre means undisturbed lustre that hasn't been enhanced through artificial methods.
  • Original rollA roll of coins, all the same date, denomination, and mintmark, and usually of the same die variety, which seem to have been acquired by the same original owner, probably from the same original mint bag. Generally, all the coins in an original roll will have similar toning and lustre.
  • Original toningReferring to a coin that has never been cleaned or dipped. Original toning ranges from a very mild yellow to extremely dark blues, grays, browns, and finally black.
  • Over dippedA coin whose lustre has been dulled from too many baths in a dipping solution.
  • Over -mintmarkA coin struck with a die on which one mintmark is engraved over a different mintmark. In rare instances, branch mints returned dies that already had mintmarks punched into them; on occasion, these were later sent to different branch mints and the new mint altered the die to add its mintmark(...)
  • Overdate A coin struck from a die with a date that has one year punched over a different year.
  • OverstrikeA new coin produced with a previously struck coin used as the planchet
  • P-MintSynonym for the U.S. Mint located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
  • Pan-PacSynonym for Panama-Pacific Exhibition.
  • Pan-Pac slugSynonym for the round or octagonal 1915-dated Panama-Pacific fifty-dollar commemorative coins.
  • Panama-Pacific ExhibitionA 1915 exhibition held in San Francisco, California to celebrate the completion of the Panama Canal.
  • Paper moneySynonym for currency.
  • PatinaSynonym for toning.
  • PatternA test striking of a coin produced to trial a proposed design, composition, or size. Patterns were often struck in metals other than the one proposed.
  • PCGSAbbreviation for Professional Coin Grading Service, a leading grading service located in Newport Beach, CA.
  • PCGS Population ReportMonthly publication by PCGS listing the number of coins graded and their grade.
  • Peace dollarSynonym for the silver dollar struck from 1921 to 1935. The Peace dollar was designed by Anthony Francisci to commemorate the peace following World War I. 1921 featured another coin designated High Relief. In 1922, the relief was lowered resulting in the Regular Relief type that was issued(...)
  • PedigreeThe listing of a coin's current owner plus all known previous owners.
  • PennySynonym for a one-cent U.S. coin.
  • Peripheral toningColoring - which may be light, medium, or dark - around the edge of a coin.
  • PhiladelphiaThe primary U.S. Mint located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was first established in 1792.
  • Pioneer goldPrivately issued gold coins struck prior to 1861. The term is generally associated with the private issues from California and the other post-1848 ore finds in Nevada, Oregon, and Colorado.
  • PLAbbreviation for prooflike.
  • Plain edgeA smooth, flat edge seen mainly on a small-denomination coinage.
  • PlanchetThe blank metal disk, which becomes a coin when struck under high pressure between two dies.
  • Planchet defectAny defect of a coin which was caused by the planchet being imperfect prior to the coin being struck.
  • Planchet flawAn irregular hole in a coin blank, sometimes the result of a lamination that has broken away.
  • Planchet striationsFine, incuse lines found on some Proof coins believed to be caused by polishing of the blanks prior to striking.
  • PlatedA coin with a thin layer of metal applied. For example, gold-plated copper strikings of certain U.S. pattern coins.
  • PlatinumA precious metal sometimes used for coinage. The only United States issues struck in platinum are the pattern half dollars of 1814 and modern platinum Eagles.
  • PluggedTerm used to describe a coin that has had a hole filled, often so expertly that it can be discerned only under magnification.
  • PNGAcronym for Professional Numismatists Guild.
  • PNG certificateA document (in duplicate: one for the coin owner and one kept on-file at PNG) completed by a PNG dealer that provided a guarantee of authenticity prior to third-party grading services.
  • POAbbreviation for Poor. (Also P).
  • Polished dieA die that has been basined to remove clash marks or other die injury. Dies used to strike Proof coins were polished to impart mirrorlike surfaces.
  • Polyvinyl chlorideA somewhat active chemical found in some types of plastic coin flips. Polyvinyl Chloride will cause some coins to tone or turn green over time.
  • PoorSynonym for the grade PO-1 (or P1).
  • Pop ReportSynonym for a report issued by NGC or PCGS, which summarizes the coins certified to date.
  • PopulationThe population of a coin refers to how many coins have been certified by a given grading service in that particular grade. The amount higher refers to how many have been certified in a higher grade by that grading service. The population data corresponds to the particular coin date,(...)
  • PQAcronym for premium quality.
  • PR
    Abbreviation for Proof.
  • Premium qualityA term which describes the very finest coins that fall into any given grade, or that have some claims to a higher grade.
  • Presentation strikingA coin, often a Proof or an exceptionally sharp business strike, specially struck and given to a dignitary or other person.
  • PressAny coining machine.
  • Price guideA periodical listing prices for numismatic items. The guide might differentiate between buy and sell (Bid/Ask), as well as wholesale or retail prices.
  • Price listSynonym for fixed price list
  • PristineTerm describing coins in original, unimpaired condition. Pristine coins are typically graded MS/PR-67 and higher.
  • Professional Coin Grading ServiceA leading third-party coin grading service located in Newport Beach, California.
  • Professional Numismatists GuildAn organization of Numismatic dealers founded in 1955.
  • ProofA specially produced coin made from highly polished planchets and dies and often struck more than once to accent the design. Proof coins receive the highest quality strike possible and can be distinguished by their mirror-like background and frosted foreground.
  • Proof diesDies which are prepared and used exclusively to produce proof coins. Often, the fields of proof dies are highly polished to impart a mirrorlike finish, and the recessed areas are left unfinished to create frosted devices.
  • Proof-only issueA coin struck only as a Proof, with no business-strike counterpart.
  • Proof setA coin set containing Proof issues from a particular year. A few sets contain anomalies such as the 1804 dollar and eagle in 1834 presentation Proof sets.
  • ProoflikeA coin that has mirror-like surfaces. This term is particularly applicable to Morgan dollars.
  • ProvenanceSynonym for pedigree.
  • PunchA steel rod with a device, a date, lettering, and other symbols on the end which was hammered into a working die.
  • Put-together rollAn "original roll" that has had the best coins removed and substituted with lesser quality coins.
  • PVCAcronym for polyvinyl chloride.
  • PVC damageA film, often green, left on a coin after storage in flips that contain PVC. During the early stage, this film may be clear and sticky.
  • PVC flipSynonym for a coin flip that contains PVC.
  • QuarterA U.S. coin of the quarter dollar denomination.
  • Quarter EagleLiterally, one-fourth of an eagle, equal to a two-and-one-half dollar gold coin. The quarter eagle was first struck in 1796, struck sporadically thereafter, and was discontinued in 1929.
  • Questionable toning Suspicious color on a coin that may not be natural.
  • Racketeer nickelA gold-plated 1883 No "CENTS" Liberty Head five-cent coin ("V" nickel). Legend has it that a deaf-mute gold-plated these unfamiliar coins and would use them as legal tender. Sometimes, he was given change for a five-dollar gold piece since the V on the reverse could be interpreted as either(...)
  • Rainbow toningToning which is usually seen on silver dollars stored in bags. A full spectrum of colors are represented, beginning with yellow, then green, to red, to blue, and sometimes even black.
  • Rare A relative term indicating that a coin within a series is very difficult to find. A coin with only a few examples known. A term sometimes applied to all coins of numismatic value (as in: Rare Coin Dealer).
  • RarityThe total number of extant specimens of a particular numismatic item. Condition rarity describes the number of specimens in a particular grade plus any in higher grades.
  • Rarity scaleA numerical-rating system used to quantify rarity. One example is the Universal Rarity Scale.
  • RawRefers to any coin that is not encapsulated by a grading service.
  • RaysTerm for the lines that represent sun rays on a coin's design.
  • RBAbbreviation for red and brown or Red-Brown.
  • RDAbbreviation for Red.
  • RealA genuine coin. Also see: Counterfeit alteration.
  • RedDescribes a copper coin that still retains 95 percent or more of its original color. (Abbreviated as RD)
  • Red-BrownDescribes a copper coin that has from 5 to 95 percent of its original mint color remaining (Abbreviated as RB).
  • RedbookSynonym for "A Guide Book of U.S. Coins", the annual price guide that is often considered the "bible" of printed numismatic retail price guides. First issued in 1947.
  • Reeded edgeGrooved notches found on the edge of some coins.
  • Reeding mark(s)A mark or marks caused when the reeded edge of one coin scuffs or scratches the surface of another coin.
  • Regular issueA coin struck for commerce. There may be Regular and/or Proof strikes, as well as die trials of regular issues.
  • Regular strikeSynonym for business strike. A coin struck using conventional coin pressing methods.
  • ReliefThe part of a coin’s design that is raised above the surface, opposite of incuse.
  • ReplicaA copy, or reproduction.
  • RestrikeA coin struck later than indicated by its date, often with different dies.
  • RetonedA coin that has been dipped or cleaned and then has regained color - either naturally or artificially.
  • ReverseThe back or "tails" side, of a coin.
  • RiddlerA machine that screens out blanks (planchets) that are the wrong size or shape
  • RimThe raised area around the edges of the obverse and reverse of a coin.
  • Rim dingSynonym for a rim nick.
  • Rim nickA mark or indentation on the rim of a coin.
  • Ring testA test that may determine whether a coin was struck or is an electrotype or cast copy. The coin is balanced on a finger and gently tapped with a metal object. Genuine coins have a high-pitched ring or tone, while electrotypes and cast copies have little or none. It should be noted that this(...)
  • RipA slang term for a coin which was purchased below the market wholesale price and is easily resalable for a good profit.
  • RollA set number of coins stored in a coin wrapper. Rolls were originally paper wrappers, and today are typically plastic.
  • Roll frictionMinor displacement of metal, mostly on the high points, seen on coins stored in rolls.
  • Rolled edgeA synonym for rolled rim.
  • Rolled Edge TenCommon name for a particular 1907 variety of the Indian Head eagle.
  • Roller marksParallel incuse lines found on a coin after it is struck. It is believed that roller marks are caused when the strips of metal are pulled through draw bars (set at a precise distance apart to ensure the planchet blanks will be at the correct thickness).
  • Roman finishA scaly finish, similar to that of Satin Proofs. This was an experimental Proof surface used mostly on U.S. gold coins of 1909 and 1910.
  • RoundSynonym for a round Pan-Pac commemorative fifty-dollar coin.
  • Rubbing The barest trace of wear on the high points of a coin. Just a step more severe than "friction" on the scale of adjectives used to describe degrees of wear. Usually, a coin with rubbing has virtually full mint lustre intact.
  • S-MintTerm applied to coins struck at the San Francisco, California branch Mint.
  • S VDBSynonym for the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Head penny.
  • SaintSynonym for the Saint-Gaudens inspired double eagle gold coin.
  • Saint-GaudensFamily name of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the preeminent sculptor of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. At the request of President Teddy Roosevelt, he began a redesign of the eagle and double eagle coins in 1907 although he died mid-production.
  • San FranciscoThe United States branch Mint located in San Francisco, California that struck coins from 1854 through 1955, and again from 1965 to today.
  • Satin finishSee Roman finish.
  • Satin lustreFine, silky finish seen mostly on copper and nickel business strike coins. Almost no "cartwheel" effect is seen on coins with satin lustre.
  • ScratchA mark on a coin that is more severe than a hairline.
  • Screw pressThe first type of coining press used at the U.S. Mint. The screw press had a fixed lower die, and an upper die attached to a threaded rod. By rotating a series of weighted arms that were attached to the threaded rod, the screw mechanism drove the upper die downward to strike the planchet. The(...)
  • SDAcronym for small date.
  • Sea salvage coinA coin retrieved from the ocean, often recovered from a ship wreck.
  • SeatedSynonym for Liberty Seated silver coins issued from 1837 through 1891.
  • Seated coinageSynonym for Liberty Seated coinage.
  • Second toningNatural or artificial toning that occurs after a coin is dipped or cleaned.
  • Semi-commonA coin that is considered neither common, nor scarce.
  • Semi-numismaticRefers to a coin that has a significant bullion value and some numismatic value.
  • Semi-prooflikeA coin that has almost enough mirror-like reflectiveness to be called "prooflike".
  • SeriesA particular design or motif used over a period of time. This can refer to a single denomination, or in some cases, several denominations.
  • SetA collection of coins in a series. This could be a collection of types, or a collection from a particular Mint.
  • SheldonThe late Dr. William H. Sheldon who wrote the seminal work on 1793 to 1814 large cents.
  • Sheldon BookThe large cent book, first published in 1949 as Early American Cents and reissued in 1958 as Penny Whimsy by W. Sheldon, W. Breen and D. Paschal.
  • Sheldon numbersThe reference numbers (S-1, S-2, etc.) for 1793 to 1814 large cents as documented in the books, Early American Cents and Penny Whimsy.
  • Sheldon scaleA system of grading which was originally introduced by the late Dr. William H. Sheldon, for the purpose of grading large cents. The system was adapted to all coins in the early 1970's. The Sheldon Scale, as applied today, incorporates numerical grades 1 through 70 to correspond with various(...)
  • ShieldA design used on certain issues that has horizontal and vertical lines in a shield shape.
  • Shield nickelSynonym for the Shield five-cent coin struck from 1866 until 1883.
  • Shiny spotsAreas on Matte, Roman, and Satin Proof coins where the original dulled surface has been disturbed.
  • ShowSynonym for a bourse or coin show.
  • Sight seenA term meaning that the buyer of a particular numismatic item in a particular grade may view the coin before buying it.
  • Sight unseenA term meaning that the buyer of a particular numismatic item in a particular grade offers to pay a certain price without examining the item.
  • Silver A precious metal Referring to coins struck in silver (generally 90% silver and 10% copper but there are a few exceptions).
  • Silver-cladA coin whose overall metal makeup is 40% silver and 60% copper. Kennedy half dollars (struck from 1965 until 1970) are silver-clad halves.
  • Silver commemSynonym for silver commemorative coins.
  • Silver commemorativesCoins struck at various times from 1892 through 1954 and post-1982, to celebrate a person, place, or event.
  • Silver dollarSilver coin that served as a cornerstone of U.S. currency from 1792 through 1935.
  • Silver nickelSynonym for Wartime nickel.
  • Skirt linesLines representing the folds of Liberty's flowing gown on Walking Liberty half-dollars.
  • SLAcronym for small letters.
  • SlabThe plastic holder in which a grading service will encapsulate a coin which has been graded.
  • SlabNickname for some protective coin encapsulation methods, especially those that are permanently sealed and rectangular
  • SlabbingThe process of encapsulating a coin in a sonically sealed holder.
  • SleeperA coin which is undervalued or underpriced.
  • SliderA coin which a less scrupulous individual might sell at a higher grade than it really merits. The term usually refers to a nearly mint-state coin which is, or could be offered as a full mint-state.
  • SlugTerm for the octagonal and round fifty-dollar gold coins struck during the California gold rush. Legend has it that the term came about when criminals used the two-and-one-half ounce coins wrapped in a cloth to bonk their victims on the head. For an unrelated reason, 1915 Pan-Pac fifty-dollar(...)
  • Small centCents of reduced size that replaced the large cent as of 1857.
  • Small dateTerm referring to the size of the digits of the date on a coin. The use of this term implies that a large or medium date exists for that coin or series.
  • Small EagleReferring to the coin design with the plain eagle on a perch, first used on the 1794 half dime and half dollar.
  • Small lettersTerm referring to the size of the lettering used in the design on a coin. The use of this term implies that large or medium letters exist for the coin or series.
  • Small MottoAbbreviation for the variety of two-cent coin of 1864 with small letters in the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST".
  • Small sizeA term referring to the diameter of a coin in a series. The use of this term implies that there is a large diameter coin with the same motif.
  • SMSAcronym for Special Mint Set
  • SPAbbreviation for Specimen Strike.
  • Spark-erosion dieA die made by an electrolytic deposition method. Because the surfaces of the die are very rough (a result of the process), they must be polished to remove surface imperfections.
  • Spark-erosion strikeA coin made from spark-erosion dies, often showing signs of pitting in the relief areas as a result of the die surface.
  • Special Mint SetA set of special coins that were first struck in limited quantities in 1965 and officially released in 1966-1967. They were intended to replace Proof sets, which had been discontinued by the U.S. Mint in an effort to stop coin hoarding. In 1968, The Mint resumed the issuing of Proofs.
  • SpecimenReferring to a special set of coins struck at the Mint from 1792 to 1816 that display many characteristics of the later Proof coinage.
  • Specimen StrikeSee Specimen.
  • Split gradeA coin whose obverse grade is different from its reverse grade. Examples: MS-63/65 or Proof 63/60.
  • Splotchy toningColor that is uneven, in both shade and composition.
  • SpotA discolored area on a coin. A spot or spots can have a small or large effect on the grade of a coin depending many factors such as size, severity, and placement.
  • St. GaudensCommon misspelling of the last name of Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Also used as a synonym for the Standing Liberty double eagle (Saint).
  • Standard silverThe official composition of U.S. silver coinage, determined by the Mint Act of 1792. Initially set at approximately 89 percent silver and 11 percent copper, it was later changed to 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper.
  • Standing LibertyDesign motif of Miss Liberty in an upright front-facing position.
  • Standing Liberty quarterSynonym for the quarter dollar struck from 1917 until 1930. It was designed by Hermon MacNeil.
  • Staple scratchA line on a coin resulting from its improper removal from a cardboard stapled holder.
  • StarA five-pointed or six-pointed design element used on many U.S. coins.
  • State quarterSynonym for the 1999 and later Washington quarters struck with unique reverse designs for each State. These quarters are to be issued in the order of admittance to the United States. The order for the original 13 colonies was determined by the date which each State ratified the Constitution.
  • Steam-powered press
    A coining press driven by a steam-powered engine.
  • Steel cent1943 cents - and certain 1944 cents struck on leftover steel blanks - struck in steel and plated with zinc.
  • SteeliesSynonym for 1943 steel cents.
  • StellaAbbreviation for the experimental four-dollar gold coins struck by the U.S. Mint in 1879-1880. The term comes from the large star on the coins' reverse.
  • Stock edgeA counterfeit edge collar used for creating fake coins.
  • Store cardsMerchant tokens, usually composed of copper, created to help alleviate the shortage of small change during the nineteenth century. These were widely accepted in their immediate areas.
  • Stress linesSynonym for "flow lines."
  • StriationsTerm for the incuse polish lines on a die which result in raised lines on coins. While these are usually fine, parallel lines, they may also manifest themselves as swirling, or even criss-cross lines. Planchet striations are burnishing lines not struck away by the minting process that are(...)
  • StrikeThe sharpness of detail which the coin had when it was Mint State. A full strike is a coin that exhibits the full detail that would appear on the sharpest known examples of that type.
  • StripThe flat metal, rolled and drawn to proper thickness, from which planchets are cut.
  • StruckTerm describing a coin produced from dies and a coining press.
  • Struck copyA replica of a particular coin made from dies, possibly but not necessarily meant to deceive.
  • Struck counterfeitA fake coin produced from false dies.
  • Surface preservationThe condition of a coin's surface.
  • SurfacesThe entire obverse and reverse faces of a coin.
  • SweatingA procedure in which coins are placed in a bag and shaken vigorously to knock off small pieces of metal. The bits of metal are gathered and sold as scrap, leaving the original coins to be returned to circulation at face value. A practice mainly employed with gold coins, leaving their surfaces(...)
  • Tab toningTerm referring to toning often seen on commemorative coins which were sold in cardboard holders with a round tab. Such coins have a circle in the center and are said to have "tab toning".
  • Tail feathersRefers to the tail feathers on the Eagle on the reverse of certain U.S. coins. Particularly, the Morgan Silver Dollar.
  • Target toningToning effect that resembles an archery target - with deeper colors on the periphery often fading to white or cream color at the center.
  • Technical gradingA system of grading which only takes into account that which has happened to a coin after the minting process (i.e. the state of preservation). Technical graders often ignore factors such as strike and eye-appeal.
  • Teddy's CoinSynonym for J-1776, the unique gold striking of the 1907 Indian Head double eagle.
  • TenSlang for an eagle or ten-dollar gold coin.
  • Ten IndianSynonym for an Indian Head eagle.
  • Ten LibSynonym for a Liberty Head eagle.
  • Territorial GoldCoins and bars privately struck during the various gold rushes.
  • TFAbbreviation for Tail Feathers.
  • ThalerThe Germanic spelling of the silver-dollar size coins from Europe. The English word "dollar" is derived from this word.
  • ThreeSynonym for the Indian Head three-dollar gold coin.
  • Three Cent NickelThree-cent coins composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel struck from 1865 -1889. The Liberty Head design by James Longacre was copied from the earlier Liberty Head motif by Christian Gobrecht.
  • Three Cent SilverThree-cent coin with a star motif that was struck in silver alloy.
  • ThumbedTerm for a coin that has been doctored in a specific way to hide marks, hairlines, or other disturbances. The thumb is rubbed lightly over the disturbances, and the oils in the skin help to disguise any problems.
  • Tissue toningColor, often vibrant, acquired by coins stored in original Mint paper. The toning is caused by sulfur in the paper reacting with the coin.
  • TokenA substitute for a coin.
  • TonedAn adjective which describes a coin with toning.
  • ToningThe coloring which has formed on the surface of a coin as a result of the metal's interaction with outside elements.
  • Tooling markA line, usually small and fine, found on both genuine and counterfeit coins. They are caused by touch-ups to dies.
  • Trade dollarA U.S. silver coin issued from 1873 until 1885 that is slightly heavier than the regular silver dollar. Named because it was intended to facilitate trade in the Far East, the Trade dollar was made with a marginally higher silver content in an attempt to gain acceptance in commerce throughout(...)
  • Transfer dieA die created by sacrificing a coin for a model.
  • TransitionalSynonym for transitional issue.
  • Transitional issueA coin struck after an "official" series ends, or before an "official" series starts. It can also refer to a coin struck with either the obverse or the reverse of a discontinued or upcoming series.
  • Treasure coinA coin known to have come from a shipwreck or from a buried or hidden source.
  • Trial strike or strikingSee Die trial.
  • TrimeSynonym for a three-cent piece.
  • Turban HeadSynonym for Draped Bust.
  • TwentySynonym for a double eagle or twenty-dollar gold coin.
  • Twenty LibSynonym for a Liberty Head double eagle or twenty-dollar gold coin.
  • Two and a HalfSynonym for a quarter eagle or two-and-one-half dollar gold coin.
  • Two-cent pieceSynonym for the Shield two-cent coin struck from 1864 - 1873.
  • TypeA date or group of dates encompassing all of a particular standard design. Example: Morgan silver dollars. A type collection is a collection of coins formed by one example (usually one of the most common dates) of each type of coin.
  • Type coinA representative coin, usually a common date, from a particular issue of a specific design, size, or metal.
  • Type OneTerm for any coin from the first Type within a Series.
  • Type One BuffaloA 1913-dated Indian Head nickel with the reverse bison on a raised mound.
  • Type One Gold DollarThe Liberty Head design gold dollar struck from 1849 until mid-1854 in Philadelphia and for the full year in Dahlonega and San Francisco.
  • Type One NickelThe Jefferson Head five-cent coin struck from 1938 until mid-1942 and from 1946 until today. Also may refer to the Type One Buffalo nickel.
  • Type One QuarterThe Standing Liberty quarter struck from 1916 to mid-1917.
  • Type One TwentyLiberty Head double eagles struck from 1850 until mid-1866. These coins did not have a motto on the reverse and had "TWENTY D." as the denomination.
  • Type SetA collection of coins based on denomination
  • Type ThreeTerm for any coin from the third Type within a Series.
  • Type Three Gold DollarThe Small Indian Head design struck from 1856 until the series ended in 1889. Since the San Francisco Mint did not receive the Type Three dies in time to strike the new design in 1856, the coins from that Mint are Type Two style.
  • Type Three TwentyLiberty Head double eagles struck from 1877 until the series ended in 1907. Type Three coins have the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" on the reverse and read "TWENTY DOLLARS" for the denomination.
  • Type TwoTerm for any coin from the second Type within a Series.
  • Type Two BuffaloAn Indian Head nickel struck from mid-1913 until the series ended in 1938. The reverse bison is shown on level ground.
  • Type Two Gold DollarThe Large Indian Head design gold dollar struck from mid-1854 until 1855 in Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans. Since San Francisco did not receive new dies before the end of 1856, they struck Type Two coins during that year.
  • Type Two NickelThe Jefferson Head five-cent coin struck from mid-1942 until 1945. The Type Two nickel is composed of silver, manganese, and copper, and has a large mintmark above Monticello on the reverse. These are the first U.S. coins to have a "P" mintmark indicating their being struck by the Philadelphia Mint.
  • Type Two QuarterThe Standing Liberty quarter struck from mid-1917 until the series ended in 1930. This design features a Miss Liberty with a covered breast, three stars under the reverse eagle, and a more intricate head design.
  • Type Two Twenty Liberty Head double eagles struck from mid-1866 - 1876. These coins have the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" on the reverse and "TWENTY DOL." as the denomination.
  • Ultra CameoA term used, most notably by NGC, to denote Proof coins that have deeply frosted devices and lettering that contrast with the mirror fields.
  • Ultra High ReliefAlternate name for the Extremely High Relief.
  • Ultra rareA coin or other numismatic item that is represented by only a few examples.
  • UncirculatedThe term “uncirculated” may have three different meanings when applied to a coin: It can refer to the particular manufacturing process by which a coin is made It can be used as a grade when referring to a coin’s degree of preservation and quality of the strike It can point to the fact(...)
  • Upsetting MillA machine that raises the rim on both sides of a blank (planchet)
  • Used Term used to describe a coin that has light to heavy wear or circulation.
  • V-nickelSynonym for the Liberty Head five-cent coins struck from 1883 - 1912. (The 1913 was struck clandestinely and is not reported in Mint documents.)
  • VAM numberUnique number (such as VAM-105) assigned to each set of Morgan and Peace dollar dies documented in The Complete Catalog and Encyclopedia of United States Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars. Abbreviated VAM because of the authors Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis.
  • Van Allen-MallisAuthors of The Complete Catalog and Encyclopedia of United States Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars first published in 1971, and reprinted in 1998.
  • VarietyA coin of the same date and basic design as another but with slight differences such as variations in date, mintmark size and placement.
  • VDBSynonym for the 1909 VDB Lincoln Head cent. Controversy arose over having a non-Mint engraver's initials on a coin, so Victor D. Brenner's initials were removed. In 1918, the VDB was returned to the Lincoln Head cent in a less conspicuous spot on the slanted area at the bottom of Lincoln's shoulder.
  • Very FineTerm for the grades VF-20, 25, 30, and 35.
  • Very GoodTerm for the grades VG-8 and VG-10.
  • Vest pocket dealerA part-time coin merchant.
  • VFAcronym for Very Fine.
  • VG Acronym for Very Good.
  • WalkerSynonym for a Walking Liberty half-dollar.
  • Walking LibertySynonym for a Walking Liberty half-dollar.
  • Walking Liberty half dollarU.S. half dollars struck from 1916 - 1947.
  • War nickelSynonym for Wartime nickel.
  • Wartime nickelFive-cent coins struck during World War II with the composition 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese. Historic legend has it that the metallic change was driven by a need for nickel to be used in the war effort. However, recent research indicates that the boost to morale by having an(...)
  • Washington quarterSynonym for the Washington quarter dollar.
  • Washington quarter dollarQuarter dollar first struck in 1932, as a circulating commemorative coin to celebrate the two-hundredth anniversary of George Washington's birth. It was designed by Laura Gardner Frazier and was a continuing series from 1934 through 1998 (with a special Bicentennial reverse in 1976). For 1999,(...)
  • Watery look
    Term for the wavy finish seen on the surfaces of most close-collar Proof coins.
  • Weak strikeRefers to a coin that does not show its intended detail because of low striking pressure or improperly aligned dies.
  • WearVisible erosion of metal, usually beginning from the highest points of a coins. Eventually, lettering, details, or entire devices are obliterated. Wear should not be confused with a weak strike. It is possible for a worn coin to have more detail than a weakly struck mint state coin.
  • Wheel markSynonym for "counting machine mark."
  • WhizzedAn artificial process whereby the surface of a coin is buffed to give it the appearance of having natural cartwheel lustre.
  • Wire edgeAn effect whereby a thin, wire-like section of the rim of a coin is raised above the rest of the rim along the outside. This effect is typically caused by very high striking pressure, and tends to occur mostly on proof and high relief strikings.
  • Wire Edge eagleThe 1907 Indian Head eagle coin of which only 500 were struck. Technically a pattern, this design featured a fine wire rim and surfaces that were both satiny and striated. An unknowledgeable numismatist will look at one of these specimens and consider it hairlined or harshly cleaned.
  • Wire Edge TenSynonym for the 1907-dated Wire Edge Indian Head eagle.
  • Wire rimSynonym for wire edge.
  • With arrowsAlternate term for arrows at date.
  • With arrows and raysSynonym for arrows and rays.
  • With mottoAlternate term for motto.
  • With raysAlternate term for rays.
  • Working dieA die created from a working hub that is used to strike coins.
  • Working hubA hub created from a master die that is used to create the working dies.
  • World CoinsCoins from countries other than the United States.
  • Worn dieA die that has lost detail due to extended use. Dies were often used until they wore out, or were excessively cracked or broken. Coins struck from worn dies often appear to be weakly struck, however, they are not caused by low striking pressure.
  • Wreath cent Synonym for the second large cent type of 1793.
  • XF Abbreviation for Extremely Fine.
  • Year SetA collection of all coins issued by a country for any one year (does not necessarily include every mint mark)
  • Zerbe ProofMorgan dollars specially struck in 1921 for numismatist Farran Zerbe.
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