Matthew Wittmann, Curator, American Numismatic Society
Proposal Type: Panel
Abstract: Despite the prominent place that money occupies in American culture, historians seem to have taken for granted the actual coins and currency that Americans used in everyday life. While studies of money in a discursive sense are plentiful, and exhibitions devoted to capitalism or consumerism are numerous, the tangible historical artifacts that constitute ‘money’ are often overlooked. This presentation examines how understanding money as material culture offers a fresh perspective on nineteenth-century U.S. history. From the obvious iconography of American currency to the complexities of its circulation and use, this presentation will highlight the central role that money has played in American life and demonstrate the value of object-centered research and learning.
Seeking: I am planing on bringing in some historical artifacts (19th-century coins and paper money) for the audience to handle and examine as I give my presentation. I am hoping to link up with other panelists who are interested in object-based approaches to history, “everyday” artifacts, and/or historians and curators interested in related aspects of U.S. economic history.
Related Topics: Museums/Exhibits, Material Culture
If you have a direct offer of assistance, sensitive criticism, or wish to share contact information for other people the proposer should reach out to, please get in contact directly: Matthew Wittmann, mwittmann[at]numismatics.org
If you have general ideas or feedback to share please feel free to use the comments feature below.
This might work better as a workshop organized in conjunction with a local historical society. It could either be aimed at history educators –new approaches to teaching with material culture– or at graduate students –how to use material artifacts as evidence.