Coin Abbreviations, Definitions and Terms

I will add terms and definitions as I come by them and have time to update, if this guide is helpful in any way please let me know by selecting it as a helpful guide below.  I thank you for looking and your interest.

AU - Almost uncirculated, grading term used to define a coin that has been slightly circulated or worn but has uncirculated characteristics.  A number between 50-59 usually follows the AU abbreviation, signifying the grade of coin.

BU - Brilliant Uncirculated, grading abbreviation defined by a coin's uncirculated characteristic of brilliance or cartwheel luster.  This abbreviation is commonly used for higher grade uncirculated coins and are sometimes preceded by "choice" for even higher grades.

CAMEO - Proof coins struck producing a dramatic contrasting white or light color on the raised graphic (portrait, lettering, etc.) that differs from the deep mirror finish in the field.  Note:  Some SMS coins have a cameo prooflike finish but are not proofs.

Cartwheel Luster - The spinning-lighting effect a coin produces while under direct light and tilted under that light on the surface of the coin.  Coins with carwheel luster are usually in higher differing grades.  Other terms like white, BU, Unc., mint luster, can and often have this characteristic.

DDO - Double Die Obverse, front side of coin is a double die variety.

DDR - Double Die Reverse, back side of coin is a double die variety.

MS - Mint State, usually followed by a number between 60-70 that indicates grade for an uncirculated coin.

OGP - Original Government Packaging from the United States Mint.

Raw - Coins taken out of OGP, mint and bank rolls, or circulation that have not been encapsulated by a third party grading company.

RPM - Repunched Mintmark, the mintmark has been repunched making it a variety or error.

Slabbed - Coins encapsulated into a plastic airtight holder and graded by a third party grading company.

Slider - Term "loosely" used to grade a coin that cannot be determined between AU or MS (Circulated - Uncirculated).

SMS - Special Mint Set provided in place of proof sets in the years 1965-67.

VAM - Van Allen & Mallis - Authors of Morgan & Peace Dollar Encylopedia noted for die variety and error dollar.  Term used to identify variety Morgan and Peace Dollars.