Definition

• Ceramic.  Earthenware media infrequently used for medallic items. Ceramic, like porcelain objects, are molded clay that are fired or baked to become hard. Provisional coins have been made of ceramic material in the 20th century (at Germany's Dresden porcelain factory). And while ceramic is sometimes considered as possible substitute coin compositions in times of shortages of hard metals (as in wartime), ceramic has always been considered a least desirable choice. Considerable ceramic portraits have been made of porcelain, particularly those of Josiah Wedgwood. It is less desirable as a medallic composition because it cannot provide the sharp, crisp detail that metal can, particularly being diestruck.

  excerpted with permission from

  An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology

  For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators

  COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON

  Roger W. Burdette, Editor

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