Most people recognize two clear coin features: its denomination and a portrait of a former president, or another image representing America. Coin enthusiasts, collectors, and silver-coin dealers, however, see a more detailed anatomy. Here is what the familiar features, images, and inscriptions signify.
Devices and Coin Fields
“Devices” and “fields” are fundamental parts of a coin’s anatomy. Devices include the design features—portraits, images, the mint date, and other lettering. The field is the smooth background surface on which those devices appear. In some cases, devices are pressed into the coin’s surface, known as “incuse”; in others, they rise above the field, known as “relief”. The “rim” is the raised rim around both sides of a coin, helping protect the design against wear over time.
Inscriptions and Mintmarks
The portrait or main inscription has a specific name: the “legend.” The country’s name and inspirational phrases, known as “mottos,” are also devices placed on a coin; examples include “E Pluribus Unum” and “In God We Trust.” The “mintmark” is another significant device. Its small letters show the U.S. Mint that made the coin: Denver (D), Philadelphia (P), San Francisco (S), or West Point (W). A coin also bears its minting year and denomination.
A Coin’s Three Sides
The “heads” and “tails” sides of a coin have proper names. The front is the “obverse,” and the back is the “reverse.” Yet collectors and gold coin dealers recognize a third side as well: the outer border, called the “edge.” That edge may be plain, reeded, lettered, or otherwise decorated.
At the time of original publication, the article described the following: Collection Evaluation at Publication
A coin’s anatomy involves far more than its most familiar features and inscriptions. Its size, weight, shape, metallic composition, finish, and security features also deserve attention. This broader understanding can be useful whether someone has collected coins for many years or is considering selling an inherited collection. At the time this 2018 article was published, Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers could help explain what coins were worth. Readers could call 404-236-9744 to schedule an appraisal appointment with the company’s gold coin dealers, or review its automated selling tool.
