| Key Coin: A coin that is among the toughest and | | | | Half Dollars, without regard to the Condition of the |
| Most Expensive to obtain within a series. In the | | | | coins, then the "keys" are the 1921, 1921-D, and |
| Lincoln Cent series, for example, the 1909-S VDB | | | | 1916-S. |
| would be considered the key, as would the | | | | But if the Collector is putting together the same |
| 1914-D and often the 1922-Plain. A coin somewhat | | | | set in Gem BU Condition, the 1919-D and 1921-S |
| lesser in stature but still among the tougher in a | | | | would be considered the "keys" and the 1916-S |
| series to collect is called a semi-key; the 1909-S | | | | likely would not. Also Key Date may be a |
| and 1931-S fulfill this role within the Lincoln Cent | | | | replaceable term. |
| series for many collectors. | | | | Certain Sellers use the term "Key Date" to |
| The Concept of "Key" may also apply to the | | | | generate interest in a coin, whose date may be |
| Type or Purpose of the coin collection, rather | | | | "Key", however, the condition of the coin is usually |
| than the individual coin. For example, if a collector | | | | less than desirable. Pay Attention! |
| is putting together a collection of Walking Liberty | | | | Have fun collecting your Perfect Coins! |