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What does "reverse" mean on a description on a coin?

Question: Like an 1899-0 reverse, what does the reverse mean?


My Answer: "Reverse" simply means the back or 'tails' side of a coin.

In the United States, the "obverse" side of a coin is the 'heads' side, simply because most U.S. coins have a portrait, bust or 'head' of either a deceased United States President or LIBERTY on the front of the coin.

To numismatists, the opposite of "obverse" is "reverse".

So:

  • "obverse" = 'heads'

  • "reverse" = 'tails'


Comments for What does "reverse" mean on a description on a coin?

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Apr 14, 2010
Great Question!
by: Eva - moderator

Thank you for submitting your question here so that all visitors may benefit from the answer. If you have any other questions, please ask!

Eva

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