Mints are the places that produce the physical money (coin and paper) that we use every day. Each type of global currency has its own mint, so there are hundreds of them around the world. Each mint has its own qualities and attributes that make it unique. Here’s a look at some of the most incredible mints around the world and what makes them stand out from all the rest. Continue reading “Famous Mints Around the World”
Behind the Scenes of the Coin Minting Process
There was a time that everyone had a purse or pocket full of loud, jangly coins. While more people are leaning towards digital payment methods, coins are still the best way to pay or receive money for smaller transactions. Did you ever stop to think about how far these coins travel, or how they are made? The minting process is fascinating and contains a lot of steps and details that you may not realize are required to make a coin. Enjoy your peek behind the scenes — maybe you’ll pick up a tidbit of information to use at your next trivia night!
What is a Coin Die?
In the minting process, two metallic pieces are struck together to create an image on the coin. The die itself is a mirror of the final image that will be on the coin. These metal stamping tools are exceptionally hard and strike each coin multiple times, almost quicker than the eye can see. Dies can be used to stamp tens of thousands of times before they are decommissioned and destroyed.
How are Dies Produced?
Modern dies are created by a multi-step process that begins with a large plaster model, which is then subjected to a rubber coating. This large-scale replica of the final coin then is reduced on to a master steel template, called a ‘hub.’ This master hub is pressed into steel blanks to form master dies. Once the master die is created, working hubs are then made, which will be used to stamp the coins. The key difference between a ‘hub’ and a ‘die’ is that the die has an image that is hammered or pressed in, while a hub’s image is raised.
True or False: Coins Are Two-Sided
Coins only have two sides, the front and back, right? Not exactly. Coins technically have a third side, which is their edge! The ridges on the U.S. half dollar, quarter and dime have a raised edging that looks like a ridge or a collar. Not all coins have this fancy outer border, but these design elements are rarely carved into the master die. Interestingly enough, coins that are supposed to have these third side designs but do not can be incredibly expensive and are very rare. The lack of a border is considered an error called a ‘broadstrike,’ where the coins are a bit flatter and may be shaped differently than others of the same denomination.
Learning more about the ways coins travel through the minting process is fascinating. We bet that you never realized the intricate details required to ensure that our nation’s coins are handled correctly at the mint. Want to learn more about coin collections and coins? Contact Roswell Gold, Silver & Coins today at 770-910-9313 or visit our store located at 900 Mansell Rd, Suite 18, Roswell, GA.
The Highest Valued Foreign Coins in Existence
Coin collectors know that some coins hold more value than others. This is true not just of American coins but of coins from all across the globe. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable coins in the world to give you some inspiration for your collection. Continue reading “The Highest Valued Foreign Coins in Existence”
The Highest Valued U.S. Coins in Existence
Nearly everyone could use extra money at some point in time, but did you know that you might literally be holding a treasure in your spare change? While you may not find some of these high-value U.S. coins hiding in your couch, you might discover pocket change that amounts to more than enough for a coffee run or lunch. Check out these valuable United States coins that may be hiding in plain sight in your home. Continue reading “The Highest Valued U.S. Coins in Existence”
Spotlight on the Silver American Eagle
The American Eagle is one of the most popular collectible coins and is available in both silver and gold variations. We discussed the gold variety in our previous blog, and today, we’ll continue our discussion with an in-depth look at the silver American Eagle. Here’s what you need to know. Continue reading “Spotlight on the Silver American Eagle”
Spotlight on the Gold American Eagle
Did you know that the Constitution and the Coinage Act of 1792 made gold and silver the only form of lawful money in the United States? But from 1933 to 1974, you faced a decade in prison if caught with gold money in your pocket (unless you were a dentist, in which case you could own 100 ounces). It seems unbelievable, doesn’t it? Yet, in 1933, the newly-elected president, Franklin Roosevelt, nationalized gold, declaring by executive order that owning gold would henceforth be illegal. You could say it was a bank robbery in reverse. Continue reading “Spotlight on the Gold American Eagle”
Fascinating Facts About the Oldest Coins in Existence
America’s love affair with coins started back in 1792 when the first U.S. Mint was established by the government in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Since that time, a wide variety of coins have circulated throughout the country including pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters and even some denominations that are not as familiar in modern times. Half-dollar and dollar coins are rarely seen outside of a collector’s group, and half-cent, two-cent and three-cent pieces haven’t been produced since the late 1800s. Learn more fascinating facts about some of the oldest coins in existence. Continue reading “Fascinating Facts About the Oldest Coins in Existence”
Top Trade Shows for Coin Collectors in 2018
National Coin Week is right around the corner. In 2018, it will be taking place from April 15th through the 21st. The goal of the event is to attract new fans to numismatics, the study of currency. Coin collectors from around the globe take part in this annual event, but you don’t need to wait until April to show your love of coin collecting. Here’s a look at some exciting coin-related trade shows coming up in the new year. Continue reading “Top Trade Shows for Coin Collectors in 2018”
Holiday Gifting Guide for the Numismatist in Your Life
Numismatics is the study of money, and a numismatist is a person who studies or collects money. Some collectors specialize in coins and notes from a particular country, like the United States, while others aim to have a bit of everything from around the globe. For the coin collector in your life, the American Silver Eagle coin can be a perfect addition to their collection. Read on for everything you need to know about this popular coin and how it can make the perfect gift this holiday season. Continue reading “Holiday Gifting Guide for the Numismatist in Your Life”
History of United States Coinage
Whether jingling in pockets, feeding into vending machines, or adding to piggy banks, we use coins every day without thinking how the currency evolved or what history is involved in its original creation. United States coinage history is an interesting topic that involves politics, economics, gold and silver discoveries, technological breakthroughs and more. In short, the history of America’s coinage reflects the history of the United States. Continue reading “History of United States Coinage”