My Visit To The Money Museum

I just discovered that the Federal Reserve Bank in downtown Cleveland has a free Learning Center and Money Museum inside! Out of curiosity as to what would be in a money museum, I took a peek on my lunch hour.

Upon entering, my belongings were x-rayed and inspected, I had to show a photo ID and pass through a metal detector which I found a bit creepy. Once past that, I was directed to a reception area where I received a visitors guide and warmly welcomed.

I was expecting to just see a big coin collection but it was much more interesting than that! It had some hands-on exhibits that showed the need for money, the history of money, spotting counterfeit money, the art of money, how checks work, how savings add up and the job of the Federal Reserve Bank. I went back to take my time to really check out the exhibits more thoroughly yesterday.

I particularly liked the bartering game but gave up on it because it was taking too long, thus proving the need for money.  There was even a money tree!  There was a movie running that explained the four characteristics of money:  durability, divisibility, recognizable and something else but I forget now what it is.  At the top of the stairs were more exhibits and a big dollar bill that you could stand behind to see how you would look on a dollar bill.  I was by myself so had to just take a picture of my reflection.

It is only open from 10-2 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays but would be a worthwhile trip. (Groups of 10 or more must make reservations in advance.) Video equipment is not permitted, but cameras are.

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