
Rim
The rim is the raised border that frames a coin’s design. It protects the devices and fields from wear and helps coins stack and …
A collecting-focused glossary for coin terms, minting vocabulary, and evaluation basics.

The rim is the raised border that frames a coin’s design. It protects the devices and fields from wear and helps coins stack and …

A key date is a coin in a series that is notably rarer or more in demand than others, often becoming a must-have to complete a set. It helps …

The obverse is the “front” side of a coin, typically featuring the primary design (like a portrait, emblem, or national symbol) …

A die is the hardened metal tool engraved with a coin’s design that impresses the image onto a planchet. One die is used for each side …

A broadstrike occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar, allowing the metal to expand outward. The coin is often wider and …

Toning is the natural color change that occurs as a coin’s surface reacts with the environment. It can be subtle or vibrant and may …

Provenance is the ownership history of a coin. Well-documented provenance can boost desirability, establish authenticity, and connect a coin …

A die crack is a raised line on a coin caused by a fracture in the die. It is a mint-made feature that can range from tiny hairlines to …

A clipped planchet is missing a portion of metal before striking, often from the blanking process. Genuine clips have diagnostic shapes and …

The reverse is the opposite side of the obverse and usually carries a secondary design such as an eagle, denomination, commemorative theme, …