Understand Bullion Term

Sellers use a variety of terms to describe coins and other numismatic items. Become familiar with bullion terminology so as not to overlook any of the important details in product descriptions. Common terms used on eBay in the Coins category include:

Term	Definition
Brilliant	Brilliant coins have no tarnish or oxidization.
BU rolls	BU rolls are wrapped coins, usually enclosed in paper.
Eagle coins	Eagle coins are coins with a face value of $10.
Error	Error numismatic items unintentionally vary from the norm.
Fineness	This term defines the percent of the precious metal in a bullion bar or coin, with .9999 generally being considered the purest.
Full strike	Full-strike numismatic pieces have full detail created by metal flowing into all areas of a die.
Mint mark	Each mint uses a particular letter or mark, called a mint mark, to indicate which mint manufactured a coin. The presence or absence of a mint mark can greatly affect the value of a coin.
Proofs	Proofs are brilliant with a mirror-like surface.
Slabbed coins	Slabbed coins have been encapsulated in a sonically sealed plastic holder by a grading service.
Toned, toning	Toned or toning indicates the coloring that forms on the surface of a coin due to interaction of the metal with paper or other elements.
Uncirculated	An uncirculated designation means that a coin or other uncirculated numismatic item was never circulated. This also refers to a coin without wear.
Wear	This designation indicates the erosion of metal, normally from the highest points of a scene.