The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word EXERGUE
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
E
X
E
R
G
U
E
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "area of date" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case area of date = exergue.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does EXERGUE mean?
EXERGUE noun- A space beneath the main design on a coin or medal for the insertion of the date or other minor inscription.