New Money Museum Exhibit, "A House Divided: Money of the Civil War," to Open Oct. 9
The American Civil War evokes many strong thoughts and emotions to this day – the end of slavery in our country, the great and terrible battles that saw more that 600,000 men perish, and the secession – and eventual reunion – of 11 states. Amid brilliant and incompetent generals, vast military campaigns and political turmoil, the impact of money on the war often gets overlooked.
"A House Divided: Money of the Civil War," a new exhibit opening Oct. 9 at the American Numismatic Association’s Edward C. Rochette Money Museum, takes a unique look at this epic, bloody time in United States history, while showcasing the era’s coins, paper money, medals, and new ideas in war financing that helped lead to the North’s victory. Visitors will be immersed in the sights and sounds of the war and the era.
The Civil War changed the country forever, including its monetary and economic system: a system based on bullion coinage and privately issued paper money was replaced by a central system based on National Bank notes, and coins and paper money produced and backed by the federal government.
