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.

Alloy
The word alloy indicates that a coin has been minted with two or more metals mixed together.

Bag Mark
A bag mark is a mark that's been made on a coin by another coin, such as when they make contact within a bag that contains two or more of them. Though the technical term is 'Bag Mark', this flaw on the coin's surface may not have actually been incurred within the contents of a bag.

Blended
A coin is called "blended" when some substance has rubbed against the coin's edges until they are indistinct.

CC
This is a mintmark which identifies the coin as having been struck at the Carson City , Nevada Mint.

Cull
This refers to a coin of no value, due to its poor condition usually due to environmental circumstances. Culls are considered non-collectibles.

Ding
A slang term for small or medium indents or nicks on a coin.

Eye Appeal
The viewer's overall impression of a coin. Can also be defined as something that grabs the viewer's attention.

Hoarder
This term refers to someone who collects a large quantity of coins or other numismatic items.

Mintmark
Each coin is struck at a particular mint, or facility, and the mintmark signifies at which of these mints a coin was
struck.

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

This small glossary of numismatic terms is just the tip of the iceberg. The coin collecting world has a language of its own, and if you are interested in getting involved, you will need to embark on a more comprehensive study of it.

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