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What is the Obverse of a Coin?

By Susan Headley, About.com

Definition: The obverse of a coin is the front, main, top, or "heads" side of a coin, usually bearing a portrait. The opposite of the reverse side.

See also: How to Tell Which Side of a Coin is the Obverse When There's no Portrait?
Also Known As: heads
Examples: The obverse of the Buffalo Nickel depicts a Native American, and the reverse bears a buffalo.

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