Encyclopedia of Money

Developments and innovation in monetary systems represent more than a mere chronicle of financial history; they also convey the social, political, and economic upheavals that have taken place throughout history. This volume tells the international story of currency from the earliest barter commodities to the widely used credit cards of today. More than 300 entries describe the major changes, experiments, triumphs, and disasters in the development of a viable medium of exchange. Written for students, budding economists, historians, and general readers, this work explains the intricacies of one of the world's most fascinating subjects. Sample entries include the decimal system, gold standard, Lohn Law, labour notes, and wage and price controls.