
Minting and Coin Handling
Hello everyone,
Today, in this article I would like to share about how coins are made, handling coins maintenance and more.
So, let us get started!
How coins are madeStep 1: An artist creates a drawing of the coin.
Step 2: A clay model is made from the drawing.
Step 3: Plaster is poured over the clay model.
Step 4: A transfer and engraving machine engraves an epoxy cast with the design.
Step 5: A special tool cuts the design to a tool called master hub.
Step 6: The master punch punches the design on to the matrix.
Step 7: The matrix punches the design on to the working punch.
Step 8: The working punch stamps the working die.
Step 9: The coin starts out as a long sheet of metal. The sheet is put through machine that cuts little circles called blanks.
Step 10: The excess metal is melted down to make more sheets.
Step 11: The blanks are heated to make them softer.
Step 12: The blanks are washed.
Step 13: They are sent to a machine called the upsetting mill. There, a rim is raised on them. After the rim is raised on the blanks, the blanks are called planchets.
Step 14: The coin press is next. Using thousands of pounds of pressure, it presses the die in both sides on the planchet.
Step 15: Finally, the coins are checked for quality and are sent to the Federal Reserve Bank to circulate.
Handling Coins* Coins are very delicate things. It is easy to make scratches, nicks, and dents on them. We can also make fingerprints and spots. Even a tiny nicks or scratch can seriously reduce the value of a coin.
* It is a good idea to handle coins over a soft surface, such as velvet. Although, you should avoid distracting colors such as red. Neutral colors are better.
* Always hold a coin by its edges. Our skin has oils, that can make the metal discoloration. Also, dirt on fingers can cause scratches.
* It is a good idea to wear white cotton gloves while handling coins. It will help prevent the oil and dirt from our hands get on the coin.
* Always keep your coins dry. The moisture can cause spots on a coin.
* We need to be respectful while handling coins, especially with the uncirculated and proof ones.
* If a coin comes with a holder, it is best to leave the coin in its holder.
ConclusionI shared with you some interesting information on coin minting process and handling of coins. Next time, I will tell you about coin grading and much more. See you next time!
ReferencesCool Coins - Create fun and fascinating collection written by Pam Scheunemann
Eyewitness Money written by Joe Cribb
Comments
CoinHunter
Level 5
Nice blog, if you want to change your username, just hover your mouse over "My Account" and click on "Privacy Settings"
Kepi
Level 6
Good blog. Nicely laid out. Thanks for your research! ; )
TheNumisMaster
Level 5
Very well put! The ANA's Modern Minting Process course was very helpful for me! Its so interesting to think about how these capsules of history are made!
I. R. Bama
Level 5
Nicely done! It is important to handle coins the right way, I agree with Mokie
Stumpy
Level 5
Solid advice on handling coins. I enjoyed this blog, thanks.
Golfer
Level 5
Nice collecting tips. We all need to know how to care for our coins and also be reminded. Nice post.
Mokie
Level 6
The portion of your blog devoted to proper handling of coins is especially important, nothing ruins a coin faster than a sweaty fingerprint or an uncovered cough. Thanks for reminding us all.