Numismatics
Numismatics. The study of coins, objects that circulate as money and coin-like objects. Thus numismatics includes the study of medals and medallic art because of their similarity of size, shape and manufacture to coins. Other items studied in numismatics include monetary and substitute objects used for money. Thus, in the broadest sense, numismatics includes the study of coins, medals, tokens, paper money, decorations, primitive money, seals, wooden money and similar objects.
excerpted with permission from
An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology
For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators
COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON
Roger W. Burdette, Editor