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Coin Collecting Glossary

The who's who and what's what of coin collecting.

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Fiat Currency

Currency issued by a governing body as money that does not have any intrinsic value and is not backed by any precious metal reserves such as gold or silver. Since it is not backed by any physical reserves, there is no limit as to how much a government can print. The value of the currency relies solely on the public's faith that it has value. Print too much of it and inflation will result as the public places less value on the currency.

Fin

American slang referring to a $5 bill or British slang referring to a £5 note.

Flying Eagle Cent

A United States 1¢ coin minted from 1856 until 1858. The 1856 Flying Eagle cent is actually a pattern coin. It was not until February 21, 1857 that legislation passed authorizing the new cent.
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See also - - Indian Head Cent, Lincoln Cent

Flan

See Planchet.

Fractional Currency

Low denomination or fractional currency notes that were government issued and used to help alleviate coin shortages during the 19th century. Issued in denominations of 3, 5, 10, 15, 25 and 50 cents.
See also - - Shinplaster, Postage Stamp Currency