A Guide Book of the United States Mint

The United States Mint is the heart of American coinage and one of the most important institutions in the nation's history. Since 1792, it has produced the coins that drive commerce, symbolize liberty, and reflect the culture of a growing country. Today, the Mint not only manufactures circulating coinage but also safeguards more than $300 billion in national assets, produces commemoratives and bullion, and employs nearly 2,000 people, including its own police force.In A Guide Book of the United States Mint, award-winning author Q. David Bowers takes readers on an unprecedented journey through the history of the Mint. From the earliest federal coinage to modern-day operations, Bowers covers every U.S. Mint facility--Philadelphia, San Francisco, Denver, West Point, and historic branches like Charlotte, Dahlonega, Carson City, and New Orleans. He also explores private and territorial mints, mints that were proposed but never built, and the behind-the-scenes details of coin production.Richly illustrated with hundreds of full-color photographs, archival images, and historic documents, this volume also examines minting technology, engravers, directors, and the medals and collectibles that commemorate the Mint's story. Essential for collectors, historians, and anyone fascinated by the origins of American money, this book provides a rare and comprehensive look at the nation's coin-making institution.Immerse yourself in the fascinating story of America's coin factory with A Guide Book of the United States Mint, part of Whitman's renowned Red Book Series. This acclaimed series spans nearly 30 volumes, each providing in-depth coverage of specific U.S. coin types, minting institutions, and collecting programs featured in the Official Red Book.