Obverse

The principal or designated front face of a medal. It may feature a monarch, portrait, emblem, or other official design.

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Related Medal Collecting Terms

Reverse

The opposite face of a medal from the obverse. It may show a symbolic design, inscription, scene, or other information associated with the award.

Rim

The raised or defined border around the face of a medal. The rim can help protect the design and may carry identifying details on some awards.

Inscription

Words, letters, dates, or other text appearing on a medal. Inscriptions can identify an award, commemorate an event, or record a recipient's details.

Naming

The recipient details officially or privately engraved, impressed, or otherwise applied to a medal. The style and position of naming can help researchers assess its history and authenticity.

Impressed Naming

Recipient details formed by stamping or impressing characters into a medal's surface rather than engraving them by hand. Naming methods vary by award and period.

Engraved Naming

Recipient details cut into a medal's surface using engraving. Lettering style, spacing, and placement may provide clues about how and when the naming was carried out.