Coin Collecting

The Art of Coin Collecting

Though numismatics is a blanket term that covers both coins
and medals, the collecting of coins is a pastime that is
far more popular and has been enjoyed for centuries.  In
addition to the monetary value of some of the older, rarer
pieces, some folks devote their time to this hobby out of
pure enjoyment and the desire to build a unique collection.
This activity involves more than simply collecting a
variety of shiny coins, however.  There~s an entire
language that~s intrinsic to the coin world.  For those who
are considering entering such a realm, you may want to
familiarize yourself with a few of those terms before you
get started.

AGW ~ Actual Gold Weight
While metal alloys may be considered part of the gross
weight of a coin, the AGW refers to that part of the coin
which contains only pure gold.

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Eye Appeal
The overall impression a viewer has of a coin, or that
which seizes the viewer's attention, is called eye
appeal.

Hoarder
A collector with a substantial number of numismatic
items.

Mintmark
Coins are struck at different mints, or production
facilities. The mintmark indicates at which mint
the coin was struck.

Wonder Coin
Another slang term, a "wonder coin" is an item worthy
of wonder--i.e., in exceptional condition.

This sampling of numismatic terms is just a small
selection of the huge number of terms coin collectors
use. If you are seriously engaged in this hobby, you
should make a strong effort to learn the vocabulary
and the issues collectors deem most significant.