Identification
Identification guides
Practical guides for working out what an object is. Each one follows the same evidence-first rule as the catalogue: observe first, then match against a source — never the other way round.
How to identify a coin
Legend, portrait, denomination, date, mint mark, metal and edge — read in the order that actually narrows the field.
How to identify a banknote
Issuing authority, series, denomination, signatures, serial block and security features.
How to identify a stamp
Country, issue, watermark, perforation, printing method, plate and paper.