Here are the key parts of a coin:
- Obverse (Heads): This is the front side of the coin, typically featuring a portrait or the main design element, such as a national emblem or figure.
- Reverse (Tails): The reverse is the back side of the coin, often showcasing the coin’s denomination and a complementary design, like national symbols or important buildings.
- Edge: This is the outer border of the coin, also considered the “third side”. It can be smooth, reeded (grooved), or have lettering or decorative patterns.
- Rim: The raised border around the perimeter of the coin’s obverse and reverse. It helps protect the coin’s design from wear.
- Field: The flat, background area of the coin that surrounds the design and inscriptions.
- Relief: This refers to the raised or recessed parts of the coin’s design. Most coins have designs in positive relief, meaning they are raised above the field.
- Legend/Inscription: These are the principal words or lettering on a coin, often appearing along the outer edge. They typically include the issuing country, phrases of national significance, or information about the coin’s subject.
- Motto: A word, sentence, or phrase expressing a guiding national principle, [according to the U.S. Mint] . Examples on US coins include “In God We Trust,” “E Pluribus Unum,” and “Liberty”.
- Mint Mark: A small letter or symbol that identifies the specific mint facility where the coin was produced. Examples of current US mint marks are P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco), and W (West Point).
- Date: The year the coin was struck, usually found on the obverse.
In summary , coins are more than just pieces of metal; they are works of art and historical artifacts, with each part holding meaning and contributing to the coin’s story and value. Understanding these parts enriches the experience of collecting and appreciating coins.
What are the sides of a coin called?
Obverse. The front side (“heads”) of a coin. Reverse. The back side (“tails”) of a coin. Edge.
What are the coin things called?
The faces of coins or medals are sometimes called the obverse and the reverse, referring to the front and back sides, respectively. The obverse of a coin is commonly called heads, because it often depicts the head of a prominent person, and the reverse is known as tails.
What do you call the heads and tails of a coin?
The obverse of a coin is its ‘head’ or front principal surface, and reverse the ‘tails’ side of the coin.
What is coin terminology?
Good point! Face Value: The 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. Field: The portion of a coin’s surface not used for design or inscription. Grade: Rating which indicates how much a coin has worn from circulation.