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The Long and Fascinating History of the Dahlonega Mint

For numismatists, few things are more fascinating than learning the story of coins that are in their collection — except maybe learning the history of an area branch of the U.S. Mint. The Dahlonega Mint was first established in 1835 and was one of three mints chartered that year, all located in the south, and was created for the coinage of gold only. The other two mints were added in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Charlotte, North Carolina, with only New Orleans getting the addition of silver coins to its lineup. The story of the mint follows that of local politics, and while the Dahlonega Mint was only in operation from 1838 through 1861, this was a rich time in Georgia history.  Continue reading “The Long and Fascinating History of the Dahlonega Mint”

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Fascinating Facts About the Oldest Coins in Existence

America’s love affair with coins started back in 1792 when the first U.S. Mint was established by the government in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Since that time, a wide variety of coins have circulated throughout the country including pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters and even some denominations that are not as familiar in modern times. Half-dollar and dollar coins are rarely seen outside of a collector’s group, and half-cent, two-cent and three-cent pieces haven’t been produced since the late 1800s. Learn more fascinating facts about some of the oldest coins in existence. Continue reading “Fascinating Facts About the Oldest Coins in Existence”

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History of United States Coinage

History of United States Coinage

Whether jingling in pockets, feeding into vending machines, or adding to piggy banks, we use coins every day without thinking how the currency evolved or what history is involved in its original creation. United States coinage history is an interesting topic that involves politics, economics, gold and silver discoveries, technological breakthroughs and more. In short, the history of America’s coinage reflects the history of the United States. Continue reading “History of United States Coinage”