Coin Collecting Jargon

Coin collecting jargon describes the language used in discussing the numismatic world. This terminology includes the terms for a coin, its appearance and its value. Some of the jargon is technical and requires knowledge of a specific area of the field to understand, while other terms are used in common conversation by hobbyists to describe specific characteristics of a coin or type.

Accent – A small raised spot on a coin that is positioned between other features. Coins with prominent accents typically have a higher value than coins without.

Cabinet Friction – Slight friction marks on the surface of a coin caused by contact with other coins in a stack or a bag. Coins stored in wooden cabinets by early collectors would rub together and create these tell-tale marks.

Coil Hair – A term to describe the hairstyle of Miss Liberty on certain Morgan dollars. Coins with full and well struck coils are rarer and command a premium.

Device – The main design element on a coin’s obverse or reverse. Common devices include lettering, dates and images.

Die – A shank of steel engraved with a design to be used for striking coins. Prior to hubbed dies, metal was punched into the die using a device punch.

Face – The denomination’s originally assigned value stamped on a coin. This value does not determine actual value which is based on the coin’s metal content and numismatic significance.