The first thing a novice numismatist should learn is to identify the mint where the coin was made. This skill will come in handy more than once, because... In many ways, the value of a coin is determined by where it was minted and in what quantity.
You will need
Instructions
Determine the year of issue of the coin
First, determine what year the coin was issued. Mints appeared in Rus' back in the 11th century, but they did not immediately begin to indicate their emblems on coins. Quite often the initials of the master who made the coin were simply indicated. So, look for the minting date on your coin. If you could not find it, but assume that the coin was issued during the times of Tsarist Rus', then in most cases only an experienced specialist can determine the mint. The fact is that before the beginning of the 20th century, about three dozen mints, and often their letter designations coincided. Difficulties will also arise if the coin was issued in Soviet time, because pre-1990 emblem mint it was simply not indicated.
Where to look for the mint emblem?
So, you are convinced that the coin was issued between 1990 and the present, the next step is to find where the emblem of the mint, or the abbreviation of its name, is indicated. On coins from the early 1990s, as well as on modern commemorative coins with a face value of 10 rubles, the mint mark should be looked for directly under the denomination. On coins from 1 to 50 kopecks, the mint emblem is indicated under the left front hoof of the horse, and coins from 1 to 10 rubles have a mark under the paw of a double-headed eagle on the right side. Thus, the mint can be indicated on the coin in three places, and inspect them.
A magnifying glass will help you examine the mint mark
What types of emblems are there?
Today there are two mints in Russia - St. Petersburg and Moscow, and they are usually designated by abbreviations. The Moscow Mint has the following abbreviations: M (coins with a face value of 1-50 kopecks), MMD (coins with a face value of 1 ruble). The St. Petersburg Mint is indicated as S-P (1-50 kopecks), SPMD (on coins from 1 ruble), L or LMD (on Soviet-style coins). You can only see abbreviations well with a magnifying glass, but most often it is enough to simply understand the first letter.
What if there is no logo?
If you carefully examined the coin from all sides and did not find the treasured emblem anywhere, this is also good sign. If there really is no abbreviation, it means marriage. Yes, this happens at the mint too. But do not be discouraged in any case, because due to their rarity, such coins are valued higher than ordinary ones.
The obverse side of the coin. The obverse of modern rubles depicts a double-headed eagle, while the kopecks depict a horseman piercing a snake with a spear. For Soviet coins, the obverse side is considered to be the one on which the coat of arms of the USSR is depicted.
The side of the coin opposite the obverse. The reverse of modern Russian coins is decorated floral ornament, on this side the number indicates the denomination.
Edge- side surface of the coin.
Kant- a narrow protruding strip along the edge of the coin, which serves to protect its relief from wear.
Mint mark
Mint mark- trademark of the manufacturer. On modern rubles, the mint is designated by the abbreviations SPMD (St. Petersburg Mint) or MMD (Moscow Mint), on kopecks in block letters"S-P" (St. Petersburg) or "M" (Moscow). The trademark is located on the obverse of the coin: for rubles it should be looked for under the paw of an eagle, for kopecks - under the front hoof of a horse. The exception is commemorative (anniversary) metal money, in which the mint mark is located in other places, for example, between the branches of a floral ornament.
| Mint mark on modern kopecks: | |
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| Letter "M" | Letters "S-P" |
| Possible options for designating a coin company on banknotes of 1992-1993: | |
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| M - Moscow Mint | L - Leningrad Mint |
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| MMD - Moscow Mint | LMD - Leningrad Mint |
Degree of preservation of the coin
The condition of the coin (the safety of the coin) is one of the main factors influencing its collectible value.
The following degrees of safety of the coin are distinguished:
- Uncirculated (UNC) - excellent condition. In this condition, the coin should not show any signs of wear, and all its design details are usually clearly visible. Coins in this condition often have their original “chased” shine throughout their entire surface area. In this case, the presence of minor traces from storage in bags in the form of small nicks or scratches and some other defects is acceptable.
- About Uncirculated (AU, less commonly aUNC) - almost excellent condition. The coin has minimal, barely noticeable wear.
- Extremely Fine (XF) - excellent condition. The coins are in excellent condition with very minor wear to the most prominent small design elements. Usually at least 90 - 95% of small details are clearly visible on them.
- Very Fine (VF) - very good condition. Metal money already has very noticeable abrasion, and somewhat smoothed out details of the design (as a rule, only about 75% of the details of the design are clearly visible).
- Fine (F) - good condition. Good condition determined by pronounced abrasion of surfaces due to the long stay of the banknote in circulation. About 50% of the original details of the drawing are visible.
- Very Good (VG) - satisfactory condition. Significant wear on the entire surface. In Very Good condition, as a rule, only about 25% of the original elements of the design are retained.
- Good (G)- weak condition Very intense abrasion. Usually, predominantly the largest design details are visible.
Varieties
Nowadays, collecting coins by variety is becoming popular. Varieties are usually called copies of coins of the same denomination, year of issue, mint, which have any differences:
- in the stamps used for minting the obverse and (or) reverse,
- according to the design and inscriptions on the edge,
- the material from which the coin is made.
The most popular catalogs of varieties of coins of modern Russia are:
Types of coin defects
The numismatic value of banknotes with defects in some cases is an order of magnitude higher than standard copies. The most common types of coin defects are:
1. Vykus (moon)
Defect in the production of workpieces. Such a defect is formed when there is a failure in the supply of the metal strip and if the strip has not completely moved, then a semicircular “bite” from the previous cutting remains on the newly cut out circle. Only specimens with pronounced bites or several bites on one coin are valued. The price of such coins at auctions usually does not exceed 1000 rubles.
2. Unminted
An unstruck image on a coin can appear both as a result of wear of the working stamps, and as a result of insufficient impact force during minting. Happens quite often. Only coins with a strong unmint are of interest; in this case, the price of a coin can exceed 1000 rubles.
One of the most common types of coin defects. This type of defect occurs when using a destroyed stamp. When minted, a cracked stamp forms a convex line on the coin, starting from its edge. Of interest to collectors are only specimens with a pronounced split in the stamp, running from edge to edge. The cost of such banknotes usually starts from 100 rubles and in some cases can exceed 1000 rubles.
4. Rotate the obverse relative to the reverse
In the case of using stamps for minting, fixed with some rotation relative to each other, a defect called “rotation” is obtained. The rotation angle can be from 0 to 180 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise. The price of copies with this type of defect depends on the offset. The higher the angle, the more expensive the “turn” is valued, but it is rare that the cost of modern coins with a turn exceeds 1000 rubles.
Other types of marriage are much less common and are described in a separate article.
Where to sell a coin?
We have prepared a special one. We've compared the best of them, highlighting the benefits of each. You will also receive 10 recommendations that will allow you to get maximum benefit on sale!
IN Russian Federation There are two mints: Moscow and St. Petersburg. They are engaged not only in the production of coins, but also in the production of orders and medals. In total, there are several dozen mints in the world and on each coin there is an indication of which of them it was made at. It’s just that each coin identifies the mint differently.
Why is it necessary to identify the mint of a coin, you may ask? This is one of the factors that directly affects the value of the coin on the numismatic market. The cost is also affected by the year of manufacture, product material, edge, condition and some other things.
Why does the value of a coin depend on the mint? In many ways, this value is determined by the circulation of the coin issued in a certain year at a particular mint. Relatively speaking, if in 2012 the Moscow Mint issued 4 million coins with a face value of 5 rubles, and the St. Petersburg Mint only 500 thousand, then the cost of the latter will be higher over time.
Mint mark on modern Russian coins
On modern Russian coins, the St. Petersburg Mint is designated by the abbreviation SPMD on ruble coins and SP on penny coins. The Moscow Mint is designated by the abbreviation MMD on ruble coins and M on penny coins. It is curious that on coins of 1992, coins of the St. Petersburg Mint were marked with the seal L. There are also cases of defects in which individual coins were issued without a mint mark. As a rule, such coins cost 10 times their face value.
Since the production standard has long been established in mints, the place where the mint is indicated is strictly defined already at the time of manufacture. On kopecks (coins in denominations of 1 kopeck, 5 kopecks, 10 kopecks, 50 kopecks), the mint mark is stamped on the obverse of the coin, under the horse’s left hoof, as shown below.
For ruble coins (in denominations 1 ruble, 2 rubles, 5 rubles, 10 rubles), the mint mark is stamped under the left paw of the double-headed eagle, in which the orb is located. On commemorative coins that do not have an eagle on the obverse, the mintmark is on the denomination side of the coin.
In order to detect a mint mark, in most cases it is enough to have acute vision. However, if the icon was not found, do not rush to rejoice that the coin is rare. You should carefully examine the coin using a magnifying glass or microscope.
As for Soviet coins, the mint mark began to be applied to them only in 1975. The first Soviet coins on which the mint mark appeared were: 1 ruble, dedicated to the fortieth anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War and chervonets 1977. But on change coins, the mint mark began to be indicated only in 1990.
Mint mark on coins of the Russian Empire
As for older coins of times Russian Empire, then there were several dozen yards where coins were printed. Finding symbols is quite difficult, since only on coins good quality The mint mark has been preserved quite clearly. Nevertheless, let's look at the abbreviations that denoted certain mints.
AM. Found on coins of 1789-1796. The so-called Annin coin was printed in the village. Anninskoye, Perm province. Mostly these were coins in denominations of 2 and 5 kopecks made of copper.
BK. Red and Naberezhny Mints of Moscow. The BC reduction comes from the Big Treasury. Found on coins from the period 1704-1718.
W.M. (also M.W. and W.M.). Abbreviation for Warsaw coin. Found on coins from the period 1815-1915 (the period when the Kingdom of Poland became part of the Russian Empire).
THEM. Abbreviation for Izhora coin. Coins were printed in the period 1810-1821, mainly in denominations of 1 and 2 kopecks. They were published in the village of Izhora near St. Petersburg.
KM. Abbreviation for Kolyvan coin. The coins were printed between 1767 and 1839. At first, only the so-called was printed with this sign. Siberian coin, then from 1801 national. The name comes from the Kolyvano-Voskresensky copper smelters Altai Territory, on which coins were issued.
MM. Abbreviation for Moscow coin. The coins were printed in the period 1758-1795. Found on coins of 1 and 2 kopecks.
CM. Abbreviation for Suzun coin. Coins were printed in the period 1831-1847 at the Nizhne-Suzunsky copper smelter (now located in the Novosibirsk region).
Also, the abbreviation SM was found on coins printed in Sestroretsk near St. Petersburg (1763-1767) and on St. Petersburg coins (Petersburg Court in 1797-1799 and Bank Mint in 1799-1801).
TM. Abbreviation for Tauride coin. Published in the city of Feodosia in the period 1787-1788. This “mint” is notable for the different denominations of the coins it produces, which was not typical for other regional “mints.” Thus, copper coins were issued in denominations from half a half to 5 kopecks, and silver coins from 2 to 20 kopecks.
By carefully studying all the available coins for sale, it appears best opportunity for a decent choice. Many coins are distinguished by the presence of the abbreviation SPMD, as well as MMD. What are the differences? What is important to pay attention to when studying symbols?
SPMD and MMD coins: what are they?
- SPMD is a designation that indicates production in St. Petersburg.
- MMD indicates official release in Moscow.
SPMD and MMD coins: general information about the difference
SPMD is one of the most famous and largest institutions of this format in the whole world. It is planned to mint various commemorative and anniversary items, as well as ordinary products using precious metals. The main focus is initially on coins. In most cases, government orders are carried out.
Successful activities started in 1724, and currently glorify St. Petersburg throughout Russia and neighboring countries. Manufactured modern products are offered with the abbreviation SPMD, which is the main difference. Modern coins boast an abbreviation under the bird's right foot. Previously, coins were issued with other designations in the form of letters, and their number turns out to be quite large (7 options). 
MMD is one of the most famous manufacturers coins The company is engaged in minting coins, fulfilling orders from foreign countries and private customers. Products include investment, commemorative, and precious metals of interest to numismatists. The institution has been successfully operating since 1942. The Moscow Mint, like the St. Petersburg Mint, is a member of the state association "Gosznak", which corresponds to current situation On the market. However, on the manufactured products, under the eagle’s right paw, one can note the presence of the abbreviation MMD or M, which indicates a different manufacturing institution.
On penny coins, the abbreviations MMD, M are placed under the horse’s hoof. This rule applies to both mints. In addition, occasionally coins do not have any letter designation, because they are defective items and cannot be valued at face value. 
SPMD and MMD coins: important differences
- SPMD coins are produced by the St. Petersburg plant, MMD by the Moscow plant.
- Old coins issued in St. Petersburg have different designations, despite the fact that Moscow products are presented in only two designations.
- The Moscow Mint performs only individual orders. At the same time, the St. Petersburg Mint operates only on the basis of government orders.
It is important to note that both institutions are not limited to just issuing coins, so the range of products is wide and varied.
Valuable coins MMD and SPMD
All numismatists know which items turn out to be the most valuable. In most cases, the following options are expected to be highly popular:
- SPMD 5 rubles (2003). The average cost is 6,000 rubles. The circulation is characterized by minimal volumes. The coin is made in regular design. Expect no wide edges, offset lettering, or unique patterns. The only difference is the manufacturer's abbreviation.
- MMD 1 ruble (1997). This version of the coin has a wide edge. In this case, the edge can be flat or protruding (steps on the reverse, as well as on the obverse). Flat products are less common. The cost is 5000 – 8000 rubles.
- 2 rubles (2003) SPMD. The limited edition led to a cost of 8,000 rubles.
- 1 ruble (2003) SPMD. The average price is 10 thousand rubles. Minimum circulation expected. As a result, the cost of coins significantly exceeds their face value.
- 1 ruble (2001) MMD. The coin is valued at 30 thousand rubles. In Russia, there are several design options in use. Despite the official release of everyday life, the appeal started. The number of pieces produced is unknown, but it indicates the rarity of the coin. The maximum cost for a product in perfect condition reaches 30,000 rubles.
- 2 rubles (2001) MMD. Official minting has not started. 2-ruble coins managed to get into circulation, but without an official indication of the issued quantity. The right to become the owner of valuable products will cost a couple of tens of thousands of rubles.
- 50 kopecks (2001) MMD. The price starts from one hundred thousand rubles (most bad condition products), but if you want a better copy, it is recommended to count on an additional 20 thousand rubles to the initial cost. There is no reliable information, at least about single sales of released products.
- 5 rubles (1999) SPMD. The price exceeds 250,000 rubles, which indicates the most expensive domestic products. Currently only one copy exists. Unique design It is almost impossible to repeat, and it is this that gives the coins their special value.
Every numismatist is able to choose exactly the offer that actually suits his needs and financial capabilities.
Special mint designation represents a certain company logo. It may be different in each country, no common standards. As a rule, these are abbreviations of the name of the city where the mint is located. But it can also be different graphic elements that distinguish a city or country. A coin of the same design may have different mint designations, depending on the place of minting and the year of issue. Sometimes there are coins without a designation, but these are error coins, and they immediately become rarities.
Distinctive mark of the Russian Mint
FSUE Goznak is an enterprise entrusted with the research, development and production of state signs, mainly coins and banknotes. IN this moment Russian coins are minted at the Moscow and St. Petersburg mints.
How to determine the mint on Russian coins?
One of the first questions of a beginning numismatist. In fact, there is nothing complicated here. Mint mark can be in the form of individual letters or their combinations. They are usually very small and magnifying devices may be needed. To make it easier to distinguish Russian mint, I will tell you about them in more detail.
If you look at the obverse of coins in denominations of 10, 5, 2 and 1 ruble, then under the eagle’s left paw there will be a SPMD or MMD sign.
If you look at the obverse of coins in denominations of 50, 10, 5 and 1 kopeck, then under the horse’s front left hoof there will be the letter M or S-P.
On coins previous periods there were also designations L and M.
Mint mark on some Russian coins
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More details about the location and designation of the mint on coins: