History

The history of coins and currency dates back over 5,000 years to the first known use exchanged currency for bartered good and services. As you are building your collection, learn the stories of some of the most famous coins in the world. 

What is a Piece of Eight?

What is a Piece of Eight?

The Spanish silver dollar, or piece of eight, powered global trade for centuries and served as the weight and silver…
The Toronto Gold Heist 

The Toronto Gold Heist 

In April 2023, thieves used a fake airway bill and insider access to steal millions in gold and cash from…
“In God We Trust” on U.S. Currency: Origins and History  

“In God We Trust” on U.S. Currency: Origins and History  

The motto “In God We Trust” was born in wartime and cemented in law. Its place on U.S. currency reflects…

All History Resources

What is the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985? 

History of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985 and how it led to the production of the American Gold Eagle coin, which is now

What was the Five Cent Continuity Act? 

The Five Cent Continuity Act was paramount for the Westward Journey Nickel series to commemorate a pivotal moment in the growth of the United States.

What is the Liberty Coin Act?

The Liberty Coin Act, also known as the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Commemorative Coin Act paved the way for the mintage of commemorative coins and

What Was the Free Banking Era?

Examine the Free Banking Era to uncover its impact on modern finance, where decentralization, innovation, and regulatory challenges converge.

What is the Specie Resumption Act of 1875? 

Discover how the Specie Resumption Act of 1875 restored gold convertibility and stabilized the U.S. economy post-Civil War. A story told in timelines.

What was the Free Silver Movement?  

The Free Silver Movement was a moment in American history that called for the unlimited coinage of silver.

What is Bimetallism?

Bimetallism played a significant role in monetary policy. Explore the transition from monometallism to bimetallism that sparked the Free Silver debate nationwide.

What was the Bland-Allison Act?

The Bland-Allison Act, a reaction to the 1873 Coinage Act's demonetization of silver, led to the creation of the Morgan Silver Dollar.

History of the 1000 Dollar Bill

Do you know the history of the 1000 dollar bill? From rarities to common issues, this article covers the history and varieties of the U.S.

History Of U.S. Currency: Military Payment Certificates (MPCs)

Military Payment Certificates (MPCs) served as a currency exclusively for United States military personnel stationed overseas, notably during periods of conflict such as the Vietnam

History Of United States Currency: Small-Sized Notes

Learn about the small-sized currency the U.S. Mint started producing in 1928 and how American notes have evolved into what we use today.

History of United States Obsolete Currency

Obsolete currency, or broken bank notes, are a popular type of currency to collect. Learn about the history of United States obsolete currency in this

How Much are (Vintage!) Silver Dollars Worth?

American Silver Dollars are some of the most popular coins in the world, but figuring out that silver dollar's worth can be difficult.

Who Is Wilma Mankiller On The Quarter?

Quite possibly the most popular quarter in the American Women Quarters Program, Wilma Mankiller joined Sally Ride and Maya Angelou in coin history.

Lesher Referendum Dollars 1900 – 1901 

Learn more about the history and tensions in America that resulted in the creation of the Lesher Referendum Dollars.

Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation 1935 Tokens

Learn about the fascinating history of the Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation 1935 tokens.

Confederate Coinage – 1861

Explore the fascinating history of Confederate coinage, from its origins to the rare coins struck during the Civil War. Learn how the Louisiana Mint played

Why Were Krugerrands Illegal?

There is a misconception that Krugerrands are illegal even though they have been legal to import since 1991. Learn more about the political history of

Queen Elizabeth’s Long History on World Coins

Since her coronation at age 25, Queen Elizabeth II appeared on coins of all denominations, from one-penny pieces to two-pound coins. Her image on every

In Remembrance of Queen Elizabeth II

Born April 21, 1926, Queen Elizabeth was only 25 years old when she ascended to the throne in February 1952 following her father's death.

Queen Elizabeth’s Passing Brings Change to Coins

The passing of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8th, 2022 was felt around the world.
Bimetallism played a significant role in monetary policy. Explore the transition from monometallism to bimetallism that sparked the Free Silver debate nationwide.
Explore the fascinating history of Confederate coinage, from its origins to the rare coins struck during the Civil War. Learn how the Louisiana Mint played

More Guides for You

What is Bullion?

Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Palladium all come in various forms and sizes to create a variety of options for investors and collectors.  

What Is an Eagle

Since the U.S. Mint’s American Eagle program began in 1986, Gold and Silver Eagles have remained a popular choice among both investors and collectors

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