What Do the Letters on Your Coins Mean?

Coins are more than mere instruments of commerce; they are small historical artifacts carrying a variety of messages and identifiers through their lettering. Understanding these inscriptions can reveal fascinating details about a coin’s origin, its design, and the national values it represents. Each letter and phrase etched onto a coin serves a purpose, transforming it into a miniature chronicle of its era. Deciphering these elements allows for a deeper appreciation of the currency we use daily.

Mint Marks

A small letter or symbol, known as a mint mark, is stamped onto a coin to indicate the facility where it was produced. These marks are crucial for identifying the coin’s origin and can often influence its rarity and value among collectors. For instance, coins without a mint mark were typically produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which historically did not use a “P” mark on most of its circulating coinage until 1979.

Other common mint marks found on U.S. coins include “D” for the Denver Mint and “S” for the San Francisco Mint. The “W” mint mark signifies coins produced at the West Point Mint, primarily known for striking collector and bullion coins. Historically, “CC” denoted coins from the Carson City Mint, and “O” was used for the New Orleans Mint. The placement of these marks can vary, often appearing on the reverse side of older coins and later moving to the obverse, such as below the date or near the portrait.

Mottoes and Key Phrases

U.S. coinage features several powerful mottoes and phrases that convey significant national meaning. “IN GOD WE TRUST” is the official national motto, first appearing on the 1864 two-cent coin during the Civil War. This motto became mandatory on all U.S. currency in 1955 and officially replaced “E PLURIBUS UNUM” as the national motto in 1956.

“E PLURIBUS UNUM,” Latin for “Out of many, one,” was the original unofficial motto of the United States. This phrase, present on the Great Seal of the U.S. and most U.S. coinage, symbolizes the unity formed by the individual states. The concept of “LIBERTY” is also a fundamental inscription on U.S. coins, reflecting the nation’s foundational principle of freedom. Early coins featured allegorical figures of Lady Liberty.

Designer and Engraver Initials

Many U.S. coins bear small initials that represent the artists who created their designs. These subtle marks acknowledge the individuals whose artistic vision shaped the nation’s coinage. One widely recognized example is “VDB” found on some 1909 Lincoln cents, which stands for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer. The initial placement of these initials on the reverse of the coin generated public discussion, leading to their temporary removal and later reintroduction in a less prominent location.

Another instance is “FG” for Frank Gasparro, visible on the Kennedy half dollar, or “JM” on the Jefferson nickel, representing Jamie Franki and Joe Menna. These initials are often intentionally small and can be found in various locations, such as near the base of a portrait or along the rim. While not always immediately obvious, these designer initials add a layer of artistic attribution to the coin, recognizing the craftsmanship involved in its creation. Their presence provides a unique detail for those who appreciate the artistry behind coinage.

Other Important Lettering

Beyond mint marks, mottoes, and designer initials, coins feature other fundamental lettering that conveys essential information. The denomination of a coin is clearly indicated through words such as “ONE CENT,” “FIVE CENTS,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” or “HALF DOLLAR.” These inscriptions immediately inform the holder of the coin’s value, ensuring its utility in everyday transactions.

Coins always display the issuing country, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” This clear identification establishes the coin’s national origin and legal tender status. While dates are composed of numbers, they are also a form of identifying mark. These essential pieces of lettering contribute to the coin’s immediate readability and function.