Glossary of Numismatic Terms

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hairlines: Fine scratches in the surface of the coin, caused by improper handling. Not to be confused with die scratches.

half dime, half disme: A silver 5-cent coin of the United States. The Mint Act of April 2, 1792, authorizes "half dismes." See also disme.

half eagle: A gold $5 coin of the United States. See also eagle.

hammer die: The die that performs the striking action. See also anvil die.

hammer price: In an auction, the price the auctioneer calls the winning bid, excluding any additional fees the buyer may have to pay for the lot.

Hard Times token: An unofficial large cent-sized copper token struck in a wide variety of types during 1833 to 1843, serving as de facto currency, and bearing a politically inspired legend or issued with advertising as a store card.

Helvetia: Gold bullion coins issued by Switzerland; also, the allegorical figure representing Switzerland. From the name given to the area by the Romans.

hoard: Usually a deposit of coins, secreted at some time in the past, discovered accidentally.

hobo nickel: An Indian Head 5-cent coin with Indian bust engraved to resemble "hobo" or other individual. Engraving may also alter the bison on the reverse.

hologram: A three-dimensional image on a flat surface, gaining experimental use as a security device on credit cards and printed currency.

hub: A right-reading, positive punch used to impress wrong-reading dies.