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Those of us who don’t necessarily collect coins, but happen to have found some interesting coins in our pocket change (or have inherited a hand-me-down coin collection)… we need some of the most basic coin identifiers spelled out for us. Right?
Like… what’s the difference between the edge of a coin and the rim of a coin? (You can find that answer in great detail here.)
What follows are some coin diagrams and photos that will help you describe your coin to others — like if you want to sell it online.
Plus, you will find coin glossaries and definitions that will be helpful as you learn more about the coins in your possession.
#1 – This first photo from the Coin Resource site helps you learn about each of the key parts of a coin, including:
- device
- rim
- edge
- obverse
- reverse
- date
- fields
- denomination
- mint marks
- legend
- motto
- exergue
- dentils
CoinResource.com is an excellent site for novice coin collectors!
#2 – This next photo from the U.S. Mint highlights the most basic parts of a coin, including:
- the obverse and reverse sides of a coin
- the difference between the edge and rim on a coin
- the location of the inscription and mint mark on a coin
- where the bust, date, and artist/designer’s initials appear on a coin
- an example of relief and fields on a coin
The U.S. Mint website for kids has a wealth of resources available for beginners!
#3 – And finally, coin terms and abbreviations can be confusing. Check out these coin glossaries which describe the most popular words used to identify and describe U.S. coins. Each is a little different in its own way:
- Coin Collecting Words & Their Meanings
- Coin Abbreviations & Acronyms
- Numismatic Glossary Of Coin Terms
- Coin Lingo: The Language Of Coin Collectors
I like to help people find unique ways to do things in order to save time & money — so I write about “outside the box” ideas that most wouldn’t think of. As a lifelong dog owner, I often share my best tips for living with and training dogs. I worked in Higher Ed over 10 years before switching gears to pursue activities that I’m truly passionate about. I’ve worked at a vet, in a photo lab, and at a zoo — to name a few. I enjoy the outdoors via bicycle, motorcycle, Jeep, or RV. You can always find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun & helpful websites).
