Coin Collecting Term – Reeding

Reeding is the term coin collectors use for a rim or third side of coins that can be smooth, ridged or include a device such as stars or lettering. These devices are intended to prevent clipping of precious metals or shaving off a coin’s edge, so that the coins can be sold for their value rather than the scrap value of the metal.

ED – Environmental Damage

The most common coin collecting term ED is a word that translates to “Environmental Damage”. Often used in reference to oxidation marks that occur on the surfaces of copper and gold coins due to exposure to small drops of moisture.

UR – Rarity

The highest grade of uncirculated coin is an UR, which stands for “Unique Rare.” These are the most difficult coins to obtain in any series and are not available for purchase or trade.

G – Grading; GRADING COIN:

A system of grading that describes the condition of a coin using numerical ratings from Poor to Mint State 70. A coin with a rating of 1 (Poor) is not in very good condition, while a coin with a score of 70 (Mint State 70) is in mint condition and shows no imperfections even under 5x magnification.

B – Burnishing;

A rubbing of the surface of Proof planchets to make them shiny and a mirror-like finish, originally done by rubbing wet sand on the planchet. Later, the same process was applied to altered or repaired coins by chemically and mechanically treating their surfaces, lessening their value.