COLORADO SPRINGS, CO.- Money derives its value by being a medium of exchange, a unit of measurement and a storehouse for wealth; it can be a shell, a metal coin or a piece of paper. Money also provides a substantial record of the history and culture of civilizations dating to ancient times.

The American Numismatic Association’s (ANA) Money Museum in Colorado Springs, Colo., is a treasure trove of such artifacts. In its three main galleries, visitors can see spectacular rarities and explore the diverse nature of money as it relates to art, history, science and much more. For those unable to visit in person – or hoping to see a temporary exhibit that has since closed, the museum offers a dozen fascinating virtual exhibits and tours that can be enjoyed free of charge from the comfort of an overstuffed chair.

“Trenches to Treaties: World War I in Remembrance” is the museum’s most recent virtual exhibit, showcasing money and medals to illustrate the events and effects of the war politically, economically and socially. Called “The Great War,” and more optimistically, “The War to End All Wars,” World War I was an event that changed the world’s political map and the fabric of civilization. In addition to coins and paper money from combatant nations, the exhibit features artistic medals, military decorations, historical background about the crash of the gold standard, merchant submarines and the colonization of the African continent.

Other virtual exhibits from the Money Museum include:

• Money of the Civil War

• Colorado Numismatic History

• The legendary Bebee Collection, which includes 500-plus notes of a pedigreed paper money collection

• The famous 1913 “Nickel that Never Was,” valued at $5 million

• Colorado Gold

• The “King of U.S Coins” – the 1804 dollar, which is valued at $3 million

• The Harry Bass Jr. Collection, the most complete U.S. gold coin collection ever assembled

All the virtual exhibits can be accessed at www.money.org/money-museum/virtual-exhibits.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of educational and outreach programs as well as its museum, library, publications, and conventions.