Letter G

Golden Glossary of Coin Terminology

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Gem

An adjective which is typically used by numismatists for any coin which they grade MS65 or Proof 65.

Gold

The native metal, commonly alloyed with silver and, to a lesser extent, with copper, in natural occurrences.

Gold Dust

Fine particles of gold.

Gold Electroplate

A thin coating of karat gold is applied to a base metal by electrical current; it must be at least seven millionths of an inch thick.

Gold Filled (G.F.)

A product that has a layer of at least 10-karat gold, mechanically bonded by heat and pressure to a base metal.

Gold Flashed

Also gold washed. A thin film of gold applied to a base metal, as in electroplating, but with less than seven millionths of an inch thickness of karat gold.

Gold Nugget

A water worn piece of native gold, usually implying some size, not in minute particles.

Gold Overlay

Also known as gold plate and rolled gold plate. These terms can be used as markings on gold-layered products without a fractional prefix only if the gold weight is at least 1/20 of the total weight of the metals.

Gold Plate

See Gold Overlay.

Gold Standard

The term to designate the monetary standard of a country when all the paper money it issues is based by a gold reserve. The United States abandoned the gold standard in 1934.

Good (G)

Coins which are quite worn but have a discernible date. Design, legends and date are clear, but not sharp.

Grade

The condition or state of preservation of a coin. One of the main determining factors of value.

Grams

A unit of weight measurement equivalent to .0322 Troy Ounces.

Grey Sheet

The Coin Dealer Newsletter.