Croatia, 5 Lipa, 2009
Brass plated steel - MS(65-70) - KM:5
Marten back of numeral, arms divide branches below.
Bluefin tuna right, date below
REPUBLIKA HRVATSKA
2.48 gr
An “MS(65-70)” quality
As in numismatics it is important that the state of conservation of an item be carefully evaluated before it is offered to a discerning collector with a keen eye.
This initially obscure acronym comprising two words describing the state of conservation is explained clearly here:
Mint State(65-70)
This means – more prosaically – that the coin is brand new and free from defects, thus in the state it left the mint. It has probably never been in circulation or seen the bottom of a pocket up close. The term “fleur de coin” is also used internationally to refer to the first coins struck with a new die. By extension, this term thus also now describes “perfect” coins not displaying any defects and retaining their full original luster.