The edge of a coin is the outer surface between the obverse (heads) and reverse (tails) sides . It’s sometimes referred to as the “third side” of a coin.
Coin edges can be:
- Plain/Smooth: Like on a penny or nickel, [according to Osborne Coinage].
- Reeded: Having small, textured, vertical marks (ridges or grooves) like on a dime or a quarter. This was initially done to prevent clipping (shaving off precious metal) and counterfeiting.
- Lettered: Featuring words or symbols engraved into the edge, [says The Spruce Crafts].
- Decorated: Displaying various designs like flowers or swirls.
It’s important to distinguish the edge from the rim , which is the raised border around each side of the coin (obverse and reverse) that helps protect the design and allows coins to stack.
What is the grooved edge of a coin called?
Good point! Reeded edges are often referred to as “ridged” or “grooved” (US usage), or “milled” (UK usage).
What are coin sides called?
Obverse. The front side (“heads”) of a coin. Reverse. The back side (“tails”) of a coin. Edge.
Is the edge of a coin a side?
Edge: The outer border of a coin, considered the ” third side.” May be plain or serrated (also known as “reeding”).
What are the names for the sides of a coin?
I can help with that. 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.