Definition

• Etched, Etching.  Lettering or design created by use of acid and a ground (of wax or other resistant material). The metal surface is coated with the ground, lettering or design is inscribed where intended (wax removed down to the metal surface), acid applied to etch the exposed surface, then the protective wax is removed. Produces incised area where inscribed or wax removed. In medallic art such etching is occasionally used to inscribe an existing medal with lettering, figures to customize the piece; this can even
  be accomplished on the edge.  See acid etching.

  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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