In numismatics

Numismatics

Numismatics is the study or collection of currency, including coins, tokens, paper money, and related objects. While numismatists are often characterized as students or collectors of coins, the discipline also includes the broader study of money and other payment media used to resolve debts and the...

, a matrix is an intermediate used in the process of manufacturing coin

Coin

A coin is a piece of hard material that is standardized in weight, is produced in large quantities in order to facilitate trade, and primarily can be used as a legal tender token for commerce in the designated country, region, or territory....

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A matrix has its design in the same sense as a die

Die (manufacturing)

A die is a specialized tool used in manufacturing industries to cut or shape material using a press. Like molds, dies are generally customized to the item they are used to create...

. The design is engraved convex into the matrix, which is used to create punches

Punch (numismatics)

In numismatics, a punch is an intermediate used in the process of manufacturing coins.A punch has its design in cameo, much like on the coins themselves. Prior to the use of punches, each die was individually engraved and when a die wore out, another one had to be engraved to replace it, and the...

. The matrix step was developed in the 17th century for two main reasons. The original design in the matrix could be better preserved, as a single matrix could be used to make several punches. Second, it made easier the addition of secondary details such as the legend, a difficult task