Symbols of Power

Money has always been a subject of interest, today more so than ever . For centuries it has performed a key role around the globe most obviously in trade and the economy, but also in the development of national identi ties, religions and the spread of empire. Introduced as measurements of weight to serve the most basic of functions, these currencies have changed appearance and meaning throughout the ages and developed into complex monetary units we know today . This engaging book tells the story of ten of the worlds most important currencies and reveals how each and every one of them ha s helped shape the world we live in. With a brief but informative biography of each of the currencies , it reveals where and how each originated, the various roles they performed, and how they spread, surv ived and changed over the years. Some may have fallen into disuse but they might also have been revived in new and une xpected forms, and in different locations. Charting the rise and fall of each, t he book will look at how the movements, developments and designs of currencies can highlight broader themes of history such as the characteristics of empire, trade and migrat ion and the personalities of kings and rulers and how they can be identified as barometer s for the political fortunes of a nation. Packed full of facts and interesting stories , and thoughtfully illustrated with images from the British Museum and beyon d , Old Gold to New Money is an illuminating account of world currencies and the cruc ial role they play in our world.