exergure

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Lower section of a coin or medal: "exergure" refers to the area on the reverse side of a coin or medal, typically below the main design, often separated by a horizontal line.
   • Inscription in that area: "exergure" can also mean the text or engraving that appears in this lower section, such as the date, mint mark, or motto.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The exergure of the ancient coin contained the year of minting. (The lower part of the coin's reverse side had the year inscribed.)
  • Collectors examined the exergure for the mint mark. (The area below the main design was inspected for the identifying symbol.)

Advanced Usage

• "in the exergure": a phrase used to specify the location of an inscription on a coin or medal.
  • The motto was placed in the exergure of the commemorative medal. (The text was engraved in the lower section of the medal.)

Variants and Related Words

• Exergual (adj): relating to or situated in the exergure.
  • The exergual inscription was difficult to read due to wear. (The text in the lower section of the coin was worn down.)

Synonyms

• Field: the main surface of a coin, but not the exergure specifically; "field" is broader.
• Reverse: the back side of a coin, which includes the exergure as part of it.

Related Idioms

• None common; "exergure" is a technical term primarily used in numismatics (the study of coins and medals).