Numismatics, the practice of collecting or studying coins, medals, tokens, or other similar items, has its own set of basic terms, here are some of the most basic and common:
Obverse: The side of a coin referred to as “heads” is known as the obverse side.
Reverse: The side of a coin referred to as “tails” is known as the reverse side.
Third side: The edge of the coin is sometimes called the third side.
Coin rim: The rim of the coin is the outer edge, which is often raised.
Legends: The phrases on the surface of a coin are known as legends or mottoes.
Device: The device is the design. It often features the bust of a person or an eagle.
Mint: Coins are struck at a mint.
Dies: The metal pieces that imprint the design on the coin are known as dies.
Mintage: The number of coins that are struck is the mintage.
Circulation: Coins struck for general use are in circulation.
Proofs: Proofs are coins that have been struck with a highly polished die and are sold especially to collectors. Cameo proofs are proofs with a frosted appearance. Proof coins are graded Proof 70, Proof 65, Proof 60, and below. Proof is sometimes abbreviated PR or PF.
Curating: Curating is a method of cleaning that does not harm a coin’s surface.
Bullion: Bullion coins are issued by the government and are composed of gold, platinum, or other precious metals. The value of bullion coins is usually based upon their metallic content.
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