Numismatics is the study of coins, currency and tokens. It includes research of the physical properties, process and history behind the various means of payment used throughout history.
The study of numismatics has several subfields such as Notaphily (banknotes), Exonumia (coins) and Scripophily (stock certificates). They explore different aspects of coins and other monetary items such as varieties, mintage figures, errors, and the social, political, and economic content of coin minting.
Coins
The term numismatics (also known as coin collecting) refers to the study of coins, currencies and tokens. The main concern is understanding their physical aspects, historical significance, and system of coinage prevalent during the period.
A coin is a form of money that can be made from different materials, including metal and alloys or man-made substances. They are generally disc shaped and are sometimes used as legal tender in everyday transactions, circulating alongside banknotes.
Most coins are made from a base metal, though they can also be minted in precious metals such as gold and silver. These coins are typically worth more than coins that are merely made of a base metal.
A coin’s value can be determined based on the condition of the coin and its supply and demand. Especially rare and ancient coins are highly sought after and may have a much higher market exchange value than their face value.
Currency
Currency is the means of payment that people use to settle debts and exchange goods. It typically includes coins, tokens, paper money and medals. Numismatics is the study of these objects and their history.
The value of a coin depends on its rarity and mintage, the amount of precious metal it contains, and how well it is preserved. A coin can also be valuable if it has a unique design or condition.
Another way to value a coin is to check it’s grade. Many price guides provide values for several grades of coins and bills.
Besides the value of the coin’s metal content, a collector’s interest in a piece of currency can help it gain in value. Some collectors like notes printed by governments that had only a short existence or unusual currency tied to specific events.
In numismatics, the term coin refers to any object that is used for a monetary function or symbol. It also encompasses items that are similar to coins but do not have a monetary function, such as religious items or badges.
Tokens
Numismatics is the study of coins, tokens, paper money, medals and related objects. Specialists are often referred to as numismatists or coin collectors, but the discipline is much more extensive than this.
Tokens are coin-like objects, not always made of metal, that serve as a substitute for currency in times of shortage. They are not issued by a governmental authority and are generally used locally for a short period of time.
They can be issued in different sizes, shapes and colors. Some are round, others are square or octagonal in shape.
A token can be a piece of artwork, an education certificate, or any other type of asset of value. They are often tied to a stable currency, like the U.S. Dollar, and function off the back of a blockchain (like Ethereum).
A token can have a much wider range of use cases than a coin. Because they don’t have to be native to the blockchain, they can represent a much larger range of assets and can be transferred between accounts.
Stock Certificates
Stock certificates are a type of collectible that has gained recognition in the field of numizmatika. These certificates are larger than a regular piece of paper and usually have intricate designs to prevent counterfeiting or fraudulent replication of them.
The value of these documents is based on several factors, including the company and the date that they were issued. They are also often framed, which adds to their collector’s appeal and can increase their value significantly.
Some companies still issue paper stock certificates, but they are becoming increasingly rare. As the investing world shifts towards a digital recordkeeping system for trades, many businesses have stopped issuing them altogether.
Some older certificates can still have a value as collectors items, particularly if they represent companies that have merged with or been acquired by other companies. To determine their value, check the CUSIP number printed on the back of the certificate and contact the company to inquire about whether they still exist.
Numismatics 