Economics Principles & Practices

"The Golden Dollar Coin"

Introduction
You have already learned that money can be any substance that serves as a medium of exchange, a measure of value, and a store of value. Historically, many products have served as money in the United States. Although money has changed in shape, kind, and size over the years, modern money shares the same characteristics of early money. It is portable, durable, divisible, and limited in availability. Our money also tends to evolve over time. A good example is the new dollar coin that was announced by the U.S. Mint in May of 1999 and placed into circulation in 2000.

Destination Title: The U.S. Mint—Golden Dollar Coin

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Directions
Start at the U.S. Mint Golden Dollar Coin Web site.

1			Click on the "Frequently Asked Questions" link. Why did the Mint create a new dollar coin to replace the Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
2			Back up to the main page and select the "About Sacagawea" link from the options. Describe the role of Sacagawea in the Lewis and Clark expedition.
3			Select the "Frequently Asked Questions" section of the Web site again. How did the Mint select Sacagawea to appear on the coin?
4			How does the new Sacagawea dollar coin compare to the old Susan B. Anthony dollar coin?