America in Circulation

Featuring the Collection of Mark R. Shenkman

For many individuals, money serves as an introduction to the world of finance. At its most basic, money—or currency—is just a tool. In its many forms—paper, plastic, metal, digital—money is a standard unit of account that people, as societies or nations, agree holds value.

Spanning over 300 years, American currency tells the story of the nation. Big moments of change are reflected, with innovation coming out of challenges and national values represented in the figures, images and messages chosen to adorn paper notes and coins. With ever-increasing security measures built into each new note and the growth of currency in new digital frontiers, currency is constantly evolving.

  • Rendering of the Rendering of the "America in Circulation" exhibit.

Guest Curator

Rahul Arora is a financial historian and collector/dealer in numismatics. His specific areas of expertise are in US paper money from the Colonial Era to post Civil War federal issue. Rahul graduated from Rider University with a BA in Computer Information Systems and has held various tech positions in investment banking.

What to Expect

Show Me the Money

“America in Circulation” features hundreds of examples of American paper money, on loan from the collection of Mark R. Shenkman. Highlights include currency bearing the signatures of signers of the US Constitution and Declaration of Independence; a complete set of notes from the Educational Series of 1896, renowned for being the most beautiful paper money in American history; and rare examples of high denomination notes.

Interactive Currency Experience

Four large touchscreen interactives invite visitors to take a deeper dive into the artistry and symbolism of historical currency, and to explore 300 years of American history through the lens of US paper money.

Is It Real?

Learn about the history of counterfeiting and discover the many security features hidden in modern US currency.