American money, 1857–1866
Explore the panic, the gold, the Civil War, and the determined people who remade how a nation understood value.
Stories of courage, conflict, ingenuity, and change.
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A nation finding its footing
History you can hold onto
10 Tumultuous Years makes a pivotal American story accessible, tactile, and memorable for curious learners of every age.
1857
The Panic that shook public confidence
1861
New currency for a country at war
1866
A transformed Treasury workforce
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One unforgettable decade
Many human stories waiting to be discovered.
Connecting history through
EXHIBITS
PROGRAMS
PUBLICATIONS
PODCASTS
Beyond the textbook
Money is often taught as dates, laws, and objects behind glass. But during these ten years, it was woven into the everyday choices of families, merchants, sailors, soldiers, and public servants.
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A defining decade can become a blur of events without a story that connects them.
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Coins and notes gain meaning when we understand whose hands held them — and why.
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The most lasting discoveries happen when learners can see, touch, ask, and imagine.
FEATURED STORY
S.S. Central America
A living history experience
Through research-led storytelling and hands-on learning, we bring the monetary crossroads of 1857–1866 into full view — in the room, on the page, and in your inbox.
Discover history through sensory, surprising encounters.
Thoughtful experiences for communities and learners.
Newsletters, podcasts, and publications that keep the conversation going.
From the field journal
Our first S.S. Central America Collaborative Educational Exhibit brought historic questions to life at the ANA World’s Fair of Money® in Pittsburgh.
Spell “Treasure” in nautical signal flags and connect with life aboard the S.S. Central America.
Search a coin pile in the sand with shells and world coins from the period.
Watch the extraordinary Garden of Gold appear in 3-D, 7,200 feet below sea level.
“A remarkable story becomes unforgettable when you can experience it.”
— 10 Tumultuous YearsStay close to the story
Follow along as we uncover the people, artifacts, and moments that made this era matter.
Join our community for new stories and exhibit news.
Enjoy accessible history through our programs and publications.
Help bring vital stories to learners everywhere.
Next up: the “small change” recovered from the S.S. Central America — including why there may have been 3,000 dimes in the Purser’s Safe. Subscribe for the story →
Join the journey
Subscribe for future newsletters, exhibit news, and discoveries from a decade that still has much to teach us.
We are also seeking donations and sponsors for our 2027 podcasts, publications, programs, exhibits, and presentations.
