Illustrated history of the United States mint: with a complete description of American coinage, from the earliest period to the present time

"Illustrated History of the United States Mint" by George Greenlief Evans is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book covers the establishment and operations of the United States Mint, providing a comprehensive look at American coinage from its early formation to the author's contemporary period. It includes biographical sketches of key figures in the Mint's history as well as detailed descriptions of coinage processes. The opening of the book sets the stage for a rich narrative on the progression of coinage and the evolution of currency in America. It begins by discussing the necessity of a circulating medium throughout history, illustrating how various materials served as money before the advent of coins. This section primarily focuses on the origins and developments leading to the establishment of the Mint in the 18th century, highlighting influential figures like Robert Morris, Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander Hamilton in driving the Mint's creation. The text emphasizes not only the technical aspects of minting coins, such as melting and coining processes, but also the historical context behind coinage in different cultures, positioning American practices within this broader narrative.