Reeding

Reeding is a technique wherein "reeds" are carved or milled into a surface.^[1][2]

Numismatics

Milled edge of a 1951 Hong Kong 50¢ coin

In numismatics, reeded edges are often referred to as "ridged" or "grooved" (US usage), or "milled" (UK usage).^[3] Some coins, such as United States quarters and dimes, 1 euro, Australian 5, 10, 20 cents, 1 and 2 dollars, as well many other current coins, have reeded edges. One reason for having reeded edges was to prevent counterfeiting.^[4][5] Another benefit of certain coins having reeded edges is that it helps enable different coin denominations to be easily identified and distinguished from each other by sense of touch alone.

Furniture

In furniture, reeding is sometimes used around bedposts, and the legs of tables and chairs. Its use in this fashion was inspired by Greek and Roman architectural styles,^[6] and is the opposite of fluting.

Architecture

In architecture, reeding is a form of molding usually found on columns, and is sometimes considered to be synonymous with gadrooning.^[7]

See also

• Knurling
• Milled coinage
• Spline (mechanical)

References

1. The Free Dictionary: "Reeding"
2. Dictionary.com: "Reeding"
3. Concise Oxford Dictionary (2006): mill, produce regular ribbed markings on the edge of (a coin)
4. About.com: "Reeded Edge Defined - What is a Reeded Edge?"
5. Why do some coins have ridges around the edges?
6. "reeded leg"
7. Encyclopædia Britannica: "Fluting and Reeding"