Definition:
Coins, as they relate to cryptocurrencies, are currencies that operate on their own native blockchain network. For example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Stellar are all classified as coins since they run independently on their own blockchain.
Explanation:
The term coins and tokens are often used interchangeably. However, coins and token are differentiated mainly by their networks. While coins operate on their own blockchain, tokens rely on another cryptocurrency as a platform on which to operate. EOS, ICON, VeChain, and Augur are examples of tokens since they run on the Ethereum blockchain. Some cryptocurrencies launch as tokens until they have developed their own blockchain network, after which they become coins.
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