What is the difference between a type of a coin such as 1979 sba coins that have type 1 and type 2 coins, while a series like seated liberty quarters which have 6 different varieties such as first arrows and second arrows?
As far as I can tell, the terms are loosely defined, and often interchangeable. In my own little universe, I call any intentional change in the the engraving or metal composition a type. Likewise, any change that occurs during the mechanics of the minting process after the dies have been engraved, like die doubling, renders a variety. But that's just my take on it. So by my reasoning, large and small date versions of the same coin would constitute minor types. A DD or re-punched date, for instance, would create a variety. But again, that's just the way I think about it. Somebody else can probably offer a codified analysis. Colloquially, I see the two terms used in many different contexts, and they seem synonymous, at least until you get to the distinction between major types, ie. Lincoln/Wheat, Lincoln/Memorial, etc. Those are clearly different types as opposed to varieties.
I think the 1979 SBA Type 1 and 2 are varieties...they are just called "Type 1" and "Type 2" because it's an easy way to tell them apart. These coins are also called "wide rim" and "narrow rim" varieties.
I think you are both right. Could you imagine the confusion if all Lincoln's were classified as: Type 1 (1909-1958) Type 2 (1959-2008) Type 3 (2009) Type 4 (2009) Type 5 (2009) Type 6 (2009) Type 7 2010 to date Chris
All business strike SBA's are the same type. And there are a few varieties within that type. While it is true that many numismatic terms are used interchangeably, that does not mean they are being used correctly. Numismatic terms have very specific definitions and meanings and it is important to learn and understand what those terms are so that you are not misunderstood when talking about coins. There are many numismatic glossaries posted on the internet, and not even all of them have the correct definitions for some of the terms. And it is not at all uncommon for the numismatic definition of a term to be completely different that the definition of that word when it is used in normal everyday conversation. Which is partly why some numismatic glossaries list incorrect definitions.
In "major variety" registry sets, for instance, you find a lot of coins that are described as Type I and Type II, or Large Date and Small Date. So small changes in the devices are categorized into minor types, or the differences are simply described for what they are, all the while being classified as major varieties. It can get confusing, but Chris is right - if we just listed everything as a numbered type, we'd constantly be looking up what that type is.
It isn't a perfect definition but in general a Type is a legislated or officially intended change in the design, a variety results from a minor unofficial change in the design.
Type is one of the few words in numismatics where its meaning changes depending upon the context in which it is being used. When used as type 1 or type 2 for example, it has a completely different meaning than when it is used to describe a coin type. For example, all business strike Lincolns with the memorial reverse are the same type. But there are many varieties within that type. And there are also sometimes more than 1 kind of a given variety so then they are designated by saying they are type 1 or type 2.
"For example, all business strike Lincolns with the memorial reverse are the same type. But there are many varieties within that type. And there are also sometimes more than 1 kind of a given variety so then they are designated by saying they are type 1 or type 2." This explanation helps. thanks everyone for your replies
