Last updated on October 19th, 2023 at 09:07 am
Last Updated on October 19, 2023 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
Getting into numismatics can be done in different ways. Becoming a collector typically starts with acquiring several pieces of valuable or rare coins and working your way from there. Because collecting coins is both a popular hobby and a full-time profession, there are numerous terms and words that are unfamiliar to beginners and first-time collectors. Canadian coins, in particular, exist in many different shapes, sizes, designs, and values, so it is good to pay attention to the terminology. As far as first steps go in getting a good start in coin collecting, learning the terminology is among the smartest ones.
Canadian Coins: Knowing Your Coin Language Is Essential
It can become difficult to move forward with your numismatics knowledge and enrich your coin collection without first mastering the official terminology. There are several terms and definitions that are used as standard among dealers, traders, professional numismatists and collectors alike. Some of these terms include the coin composition and its finish.
The Composition Of A Coin
The meaning of the term is not difficult to understand, as it explains what a particular coin is made from. However, there are several standard compositions that are widely traded and coveted by numismatists. These include:
- 99.999% or simply 99999, which represents gold of extremely high purity
- 99.99% or 9999, which represents 24-karat gold of high purity
- 99.99% pure silver
- 99.95% platinum
The Finish Of A Coin
The finish of a coin is a term used to describe the surface texture or appearance of the relief of a coin. Among some of the most popular finishes are:
- Specimen, which is a brilliant image relief against a lined or matte background
- Proof, which is a frosted relief over a brilliant field
- Reverse proof, reflective, brilliant or mirror-like details on a slightly matte or frosted field
Additional Definitions Of Canadian Coins Terms
There are several other definitions and terms you would be wise to remember when first getting into collecting coins from Canada as well as other countries. Some examples of these terms are:
- Numismatics, which is the study or collection of coins
- Mintage, which is the quantity of a particular coin that a mint produces
- Minting, which is the process of manufacturing coins
- Engraving, which is a design of an artist that is adapted and transferred to a medium, ensuring the best relief for minting
- Bullion, which can be coins, wafers, plates, ingots or bars made from precious metals such as silver or gold
- Brilliant uncirculated, which is an uncirculated coin that retains its original mint lustre
For More Information On Canadian Coin Language And Terminology, Visit Colonial Acres Coins
Learning coin terminology is best done directly at the source. This means professional numismatists, connoisseurs and dealers are the absolute best source of information when it comes to the basics. Colonial Acres Coins is not only home to countless rare and valuable coin pieces and other Mint items, but also industry professionals who are glad to share their knowledge with you. Make sure to visit Colonial Acres Coins for both information and new specimens for your collection.