Much like Native Americans, the Chinese had their own version of wampum. Cowrie shells that had been polished and smoothed, were used for trade and other forms of payment for goods and services. Over time, the Chinese began to carve more pronounced circular shells, drill large holes through the middle and eventually bronze them to help… Read more »
The first small cent was produced because copper prices began to rise and the large cent was costing too much to manufacture. The first design called the “Flying Eagle” had a very short production run and was only produced from 1856-1858. Weighing 4.67 grams and consisting of 12% nickel and 88% copper, prices… Read more »
Europe has had one of the longest, most complex and interesting histories since the dawn of time; exchanging hands from one ruler/emperor/king/tyrant to another before settling into the European Union we know today. During 260 A.D., a new emperor was setting out to make a name for himself; upon doing so, Lucius Domitius Aurelianus… Read more »
Portland, Oregon is well known to the rest of the country for its progressive, forward-thinking style. The city is rich in culture, abundant with examples of its pioneer history through old world architecture and the use of natural resources. Prior to the 1840’s, Portland was nothing more than a small portion of land along… Read more »
“In God We Trust.” Regardless of your religious beliefs, this motto is in your home and quite possibly in your pocket right now. These four words have appeared on U.S. money since 1864, when the motto was first engraved on the two-cent coin. But how and why was the phrase added? Origins of the… Read more »
It’s official: in 2020, a woman will be on the $10 bill. Secretary of the Treasury Jack Lew announced that a woman would be featured either alongside Alexander Hamilton, or all on her own. Before this, the only woman to have ever been featured solo on paper currency was Martha Washington. So who will it… Read more »
April 13th marks the birthday of Thomas Jefferson. Of course we all know the American forefather as our third president. Additionally, coin and currency buffs know him from the nickel and the $2 bill. But few people know how the famed politician and thinker earned his place in U.S. currency history. When Jefferson wasn’t penning… Read more »
The time has come, and we could not be more excited. The American Numismatic Association’s National Money Show is here in Portland! Liberty Coin & Currency will be at the show as both a dealer and sponsor. Last week, we told you about all of the must-see items and events at the show. Now, we… Read more »
It’s not often that national numismatic events come to the Pacific Northwest. But to the delight of many, the American Numismatic Association has chosen Portland as the location of the 2015 National Money Show. This is a show you cannot miss if you’re a local coin enthusiast. Highlights include the ANA Museum Showcase, which features… Read more »
While Abraham Lincoln is well-known for his many accomplishments, his part in shaping U.S. currency is less understood. However, during Lincoln’s presidency, he did more to change U.S. currency than most presidents before and after him. From creating the first U.S. paper money to passing legislation to issue three-cent fractional currency, Lincoln left more than… Read more »
