TCV Roundtable Blog

Colonial & Early American Coin Series Part I: Early American Commodities and Money

Diving into colonial and early American coinage requires us to look back several decades prior to the 17th century and the beginning of permanent North American colonization. If we are developing a timeline of sorts, it would be worthy to mention that it truly began in the late 15th century. What event comes to mind? The exploration of one Christopher Columbus and his arrival in the Bahamas in 1492, thus the proverbial doors were opened, and the flood of Europeans lay claim to the Americas.

Another notable settlement to mention before we wander down the path of money in early America occurred during the 16th century, around 73 years after Columbus' expedition. A more permanent "landing" took place in what is now known as St. Augustine, Florida, by the Spanish. Admiral Menédez led the charge as his ships made landfall and San Agustín was established. The purpose? A military base to protect Spanish fleets and their treasure and oppose their...read more