Numismatic definitions
Like most fields of expertise, numismatics has its own lingo. Find the numismatic definition of a term by entering it in the field below.
Striation
A pattern of alternate light and dark parallel marks or minute grooves on the surface of a coin or medal. In the latter case it is sometimes done for textural effect but in coins it may result from faulty annealing. Deliberate ridging of the surface however, was a distinctive feature of the Japanese koban and goryoban coinage of 1736-1862.
