Video: An Introduction To The State Coinages Of The Confederation, 1785 - 1788, By Ray Williams

American Numismatic Society - Ray Williams discusses topics around state issued copper coins in pre-revolutionary America. Including why they were needed in the first place, the early issuers, types and varieties and how they were minted.

Under the Articles of Confederation, the rights of the individual states to coin money was recognized. The states of Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Jersey took advantage and passed legislation authorizing the production of a copper coinage. Vermont was not yet a state, but followed suit. When the Constitution was ratified, it took away the states' right to produce their own coinage. We will present an overview of the legislation, mints, people involved and the coins themselves.