The Coin Atlas: The World of Coinage from its Origins to the Present Day

This presents a country-by-country account of world coinage, from its origins in the 7th century BC to the present. It highlights the economic and cultural links coins have helped to create between nations and identifies the sources and origins of each country's coinage. Within a concise historical account, the meaning of the designs, inscriptions and denominations used on its coins are explained and more than 100 maps help show the development and flow of coinage within every country of the world..

Written by coin curators at the British Museum, this atlas traces the almost 3000-year history and evolution of coinage in 200 modern nations. Selected coins from each country are described, along with significant political or commercial events which influenced the direction of that nation's currency. Neither an in-depth monetary history nor a catalog of every coin struck, this book's value is in providing a comprehensive overview and documenting the coinage histories of smaller nations, which are often difficult to locate. Excellent graphics and color coin photography augment the text. The atlas should appeal to general readers and collectors and is suitable for reference in academic and public libraries.
- David Van de Streek, Pennsylvania State Univ. Lib., York
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.