numismatics
nyoo-miz-MAT-iks
/ˌnjuːmɪzˈmætɪks/
The study or collection of coins, paper money, and medals.
Refers to the academic discipline and scientific study of currency history, not just the casual hobby of saving coins.
The story behind the word. The root of numismatics is the Greek word 'nomisma', which means 'current coin' or 'custom.' This comes from 'nomos', meaning 'law' or 'custom,' reflecting the idea that money only has value because society agrees by law and custom that it does.
Word relationships
- coin collecting: Coin collecting is the hobby, while numismatics is the formal, academic study of currency and its history.
Commonly confused with
- philately: Philately is the study and collection of postage stamps, whereas numismatics is the study and collection of currency.
Word family
- numismatic (adjective): Relating to or consisting of coins or medals.
- numismatist (noun): A person who studies or collects coins, medals, or paper money.
Collocations
- study of numismatics
- numismatics collection
- expert in numismatics
- ancient numismatics
Example sentences
- "Her passion for numismatics led her to write a definitive book on the silver coins of the Roman Republic." An academic biography of a historian.
- "The museum's department of numismatics houses over one hundred thousand ancient Greek and Roman coins." A description of a museum department.
Memory hook
Think of 'new mist' on 'mints'. A coin collector loves the 'new mist' of shiny metal fresh from the 'mint'. The science of coins.
When not to use
Do not use to describe collecting general objects like stamps, toys, or sports cards.
Fun facts
- Ancient coins were not perfectly round because they were struck by hand with a hammer and die, making each coin a unique piece of art.
Related words
Explore more words
Currency, memorabilia, collection, ephemera, genealogy, curator
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