Glossary of Numismatic Terms starting with E

[i] USA $10 coin (1795-1933), [ii] USA Gold Bullion coins 1986 onwards as 1oz, ½oz, ¼oz and tenth oz.

Rim of the coin. May be engraved with words or decorated with patterns.

Shown on some George II coins indicating the gold came from the East India Company.

Naturally occurring alloy, about 75% gold and 25% silver with maybe a trace of copper. Used in ancient Greek coins. The term may also be used for manufactured alloys of gold and silver (green gold).

A small symbol appearing on coins of Charles II, James II, William and Mary, William III, Anne and George I. Indicates the metal came from Guinea (in Africa).

The person or engraves the dies from which the coins are made. This term is often used for the designer, although these may be different people.

Coins that have been incorrectly manufactured by a mint. There are many different types of defects that may occur. Some error coins can be very collectable and therefore quite expensive to buy.

Currency of the European Union (EU). Known as the 'single currency'. Used in Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain. Each country may make their own Euro coins. Symbol '€'. Subdivided into 100 cents.

The bottom part of the coin, usually where the date goes. May be separated by a line.

Numismatic items (such as tokens, medals, badges, counter-stamped coins, elongated coins, encased coins, souvenir medallions) other than coins and paper money.