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.