Innumismatics, a matrix is an intermediate mould used in the process of manufacturing coins. The use of a matrix lengthens the production of dies, but makes for a gain in consistency.
The matrix is an "original die": indeed it has its design in the same sense as a die. The design is incised into the matrix, which is used to create punches. The creation of a matrix addresses the basic problem for the coinage of multiplying dies, i.e. having enough accurate copies of dies to produce long runs of essentially identical coins.[1][2] The creation of a master punch from a matrix is called "hobbing".[3]
In contrast, a patrix is a type of master punch with a design in relief, used to create dies.[4]
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