Making Money

Philadelphia was the first financial capital of the county. The U.S. Constitution established the minting of coins and creating of legal tender, and Philadelphia has a deep history in making money. For example, check for a “P” on your coins.  Those coins were made right here in Philadelphia. Learn everything from how money is made to how it is used by the Federal government.

Before you leave for the trip, introduce the students to vocabulary and events.

Vocabulary
Coin: metal money issued by a government

Currency:  paper money issued by a government

Engraving:  a method of making an image where the image is cut into a metal sheet or some other hard surface. The surface is then inked.  Ink catches in the cuts and, when paper is pressed over the surface, the ink transfers to the paper.

Federal Reserve Bank:  a bank owned by the government to hold its money

Legal tender:  money authorized by a government

Mint: a place that makes metal money

Money:  a medium of exchange, like coins or currency

Pre- and post-visit materials

Trip: Map

Visitor Center

U.S. Mint (CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES ON THE WEB)

Federal Reserve (recommended for children ages 12+)(CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES ON THE WEB)

National Constitution Center (CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES ON THE WEB & SPECIAL ON-SITE PROGRAMS)

Also:  exteriors of First and Second Banks of U.S.