Coin Terms Glossary
Cartwheel luster — The radial light reflection seen on original mint-state coins, caused by microscopic flow lines from the minting process.
Cleaned coin — A coin that has been altered after leaving the mint in an attempt to improve its appearance, often reducing its value.
Details (grade) — A grade given to a coin that has problems preventing it from receiving a numeric grade (e.g. cleaned, corroded, scratched), but is otherwise authentic.
Details (description) — A general description used in listings (e.g. eBay) to note visible attributes of a coin such as luster, color, wear, or damage.
Devices — The raised elements of a coin’s design, such as portraits, numerals, or lettering.
Denticles — The small, toothlike projections around the edge of many coins.
Fields — The flat, background areas of a coin surrounding the devices.
Luster — The way light reflects off a coin’s surface, often used to help determine originality and grade.
Mintmark — A small letter on a coin identifying the mint facility where it was produced.
Obverse — The front or “heads” side of a coin, usually showing the main design or portrait.
Reeds — The grooved or ridged edge found on many coins, especially dimes and quarters.
Reverse — The back or “tails” side of a coin, typically showing a complementary design to the obverse.
Geoff runs Genuine Cents, a straight talking coin education project built from hands-on experience and hundreds of hours examining coins. He is an ANA member and writes practical guides for new and returning collectors who want clarity instead of hype. If you want to reach him, message him on Instagram at @GenuineCents.
