Money and history. History and money.
The two are inextricably linked.
And there’s a fascinating place right here in town that explores the relationship: The Money Museum.
“It’s one of the hidden gems of Colorado Springs,” says Douglas Mudd, museum curator and director. “We’re sort of one of the best-kept secrets around.”
It’s a small museum with a staff of just four. But because the American Numismatics Association is also based there, it has access to more resources and “can act like a much bigger museum,” Mudd says.
America’s largest museum dedicated to numismatics (the study or collection of coins, paper currency and medals) isn’t an assemblage of blue coin collection folders behind plexiglass, but rather a place that brings money to life through the lens of history, current events, art, science and culture.
“This is not the place to come in and see every single nickel from every date and mint,” says Mudd, who previously served as the collection manager for the National Numismatic Collection at Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
Check out a 1792 Half Disme—one of the first coins ever struck by the United States Mint, an 1804 Dollar called the “King of U.S. Coins,” and a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. These three coins alone are collectively valued at over $10 million.
Exhibits and Attractions
The History of Money: From ancient times to today, money has played a crucial role in simplifying commerce and transforming the way people have lived and interacted.
The Medal in America: The museum’s newest exhibit features a staggering number of medals produced from the 17th century to today, commemorating war, peace, presidents and more. The museum recently acquired 950 medals and tokens related to George Washington.
Mini Mint: In the early 19th century, a hand-operated screw press could generate up to 20 tons of pressure per strike and produce about 30 coins per minute. The Money Museum is home to a smaller version, allowing museum staff to demonstrate the minting process and produce commemorative coins for visitors.
The American Gallery (coming soon): This exhibit, set to open in early 2024, will highlight the history of money in the United States, including information on our country’s various gold rushes. (Did you know that America’s first gold rushes were in Georgia and North Carolina—not California?)
Kid Zone: Kids learn best by doing and playing. The Money Museum uses fun activities, interactive exhibits and free classes to teach kids about money, history, geography, trade, art, world cultures and more. Every third Saturday of the month is free admission and includes lots of activities for kids, including demonstrations of the mini mint.
Gift Shop: A one-stop shop for souvenirs—everything from U.S. Mint products and collecting supplies to hobby books, apparel and educational games.
American Numismatic Association
The ANA was founded in 1891 and later designated a congressionally chartered nonprofit dedicated to the study, collection, and appreciation of coins, paper currency, and other forms of numismatic items.
The ANA’s mission is to promote the hobby of numismatics and to that end, the organization offers educational programs, conventions, publications, and online resources aimed at fostering knowledge and camaraderie within the numismatic community.
Each year, it hosts two conventions. In 2024, one of those will be in Colorado Springs—at the Broadmoor in March.
“It’s a major event,” Mudd says, adding that while hundreds of dealers will be there with their metal, glass-top cases, the convention will also offer a “very active educational component” that caters to kids and novices alike—a place to ask questions and learn.
ANA members can access the world’s largest numismatic lending library (housed at the Money Museum) and its more than 128,000 books, auction catalogs, periodicals and DVDs online at money.org.
Plan a Visit
The Money Museum is for kids and adults. It’s for serious collectors, history buffs and the simply curious. Established in 1967 on the Colorado College campus downtown, expanded in 1982 and revamped in 2001, the Edward C. Rochette Money Museum hosts roughly 13,000 to 15,000 visitors each year.
One last note… Teachers: The Money Museum offers sponsored Money Museum field trips. Free admission for students, teachers and chaperones, plus the museum will reimburse one school bus rental fee per school following the field trip.
Website: https://www.money.org/money-museum/
Facebook: @ANAMoneyMuseum
Instagram: @americannumismatic