Coin die

A coin die is the tool that transfers a design onto a coin during striking. It differs from the coin blank or planchet, the piece of metal that receives the impression.

A negative design

The U.S. Mint explains that a die displays the design in negative so that the impression on the coin is positive. In its production process, working dies are made through several stages from tools bearing the design in positive relief. These preliminary tools are called hubs. A hub and a finished working die therefore perform different tasks.

The Royal Mint Museum likewise distinguishes the tools used to make dies from the dies that actually strike coins or medals. Its account of medieval hand striking shows two dies, one for each side, with the blank between them. This historical example should be distinguished from modern machine-based die production.

Identification

Working dies can wear out and be replaced. A metal tool with a coin-like design is nevertheless not automatically a documented original die from a particular mint.

Practical suggestion: Photograph the design face, sides and any inscriptions. Record dimensions and known ownership history, keeping documentation with the object.

Explore coins and banknotes at OBA, or send collection photographs for assessment and possible purchase.