The Museum of American Finance, part of the Smithsonian Institution, opened its new museum on July 3, 2026. It focuses on finance and showcases some of the rarest historical banknotes. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect to see at this museum.
Numismatics has a tremendous advantage: it is an integral part of a subject that dominates our society—the financial sector. Whenever the history of our financial system is recounted to help people gain a deeper understanding of the present, numismatics is at the forefront. This is also the case at the new branch of the Museum of American Finance, which opened on July 3, 2026, at Commonwealth Pier in the Port of Boston.
The Parent Organization
The Museum of American Finance, an organization affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, is responsible for this museum. It should not be confused with the National Numismatic Collection, which is housed at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Why is this important? Quite simply: While the National Numismatic Collection focuses on the history of money, the Museum of American Finance illustrates how the American financial system—which has such a profound impact on our present—came into being. Of course, the Museum of American Finance and the National Numismatic Collection sometimes feature very similar exhibits, but their educational goals differ. Ultimately, the Museum of American Finance aims to empower every citizen to make informed decisions in the complex financial market. Since financial literacy is still not taught in schools today (why not, actually?), this museum serves as a vital educational institution.