Coins Online - September 2025

A privy mark is a special symbol that gives information about a coin’s production. According to the Royal Mint, the practice of creating privy marks—or “hallmarking,” as the Brits call it—began as an anti-counterfeiting measure in the 1200s. Jolly good!

In the 19th century, the U.S. Mint used arrows on coins to signal changes to how much silver was in a particular coin.

In the 1920s, the Mint engraved privy marks for the Alabama Centennial Half Dollar, Missouri Centennial Half Dollar, and Grant Commemorative Coin Program. These marks were used for collectible reasons and also to convey that Alabama was the 22nd state and Missouri was the 24th state in the Union.

Today, mints use privy marks for a variety of reasons, including commemorating events and for marketing purposes. Over the past 20 years, the Mint has included privy marks on popular products such as quarters with "V75" privy marks, American Innovation $1 Coins, the 230th Anniversary Flowing Hair Gold Coin, and several 2025 American Eagle Silver Proof Coins. 

If you’ve ever joined the rush for a limited-edition drop, you know it’s part thrill and part patience. We get it. That’s why we built a helpful feature to make the shopping experience smoother, fairer, and a little less chaotic for every collector. It’s called the virtual Waiting Room.

When we expect heavy site traffic, the virtual Waiting Room kicks in to help keep the site running smoothly and give everyone a fair chance at the products they came for. It’s not a slowdown—it’s a smarter way to keep things moving and make sure the drop feels less like a scramble.

Make the virtual Waiting Room work for you with these insider tips:

• Before a big drop, early site visitors are placed in a queue with real-time updates. TIP: Pay attention to the updates and avoid refreshing your page.
• Once the sale begins, everyone gets shuffled into a random order and gradually let in. Show up after launch? Don’t worry—you’ll be added to the line in the order you arrive. TIP: Plan on arriving a little early to improve your chances of getting in quickly after launch.
• Once you’re in, you’ll have a set window to complete your purchase, usually about 10 minutes. TIP: Have a list ready for the products you want so you can shop fast.

Our goal is to make your wait as short as possible so you can focus on what really matters—adding something new to your collection. Just remember, getting through the virtual Waiting Room doesn’t guarantee you’ll snag the product you want. Inventory can sell out fast, even while you’re checking out.

So, the next time you see the virtual Waiting Room feature pop up, remember it’s not there to slow you down—it’s about leveling the playing field. Because when it comes to collecting, good things come to those who wait.  

This month's trivia is all about our new Comic Art Coin & Medal Program.

1. Which DC Super Hero was the first in the series to get a silver medal and gold coin release?

A) Batman

B) Green Lantern

C) Wonder Woman

D) Superman

2. Which two DC Super Heroes are making their official U.S. Mint debut this year?

A) The Flash and Aquaman

B) Batman and Robin

C) Batman and Wonder Woman

D) Supergirl and Batgirl

3. Which DC Super Hero will appear on an official U.S. Mint product in 2026?

A) Batgirl

B) Green Lantern

C) The Flash

D) Aquaman