Old Money is an exhibition of Greek and Roman coins held in the Francis Lehman Loeb Art Center at Vassar College. Since its invention, money has been a ubiquitous, and seemingly constant, part of human cultures. However both monies and monetary systems are in fact ever changing, influenced by such factors as technology, economic realities and strategies, politics, ideologies, artistic sensibilities, and the availability of resources. The ancient cultures that flourished around the Mediterranean basin over 2500 years ago borrowed, developed, and used a complex and evolving system of currency. The study of these coins, which are among the most common artifacts to survive from Classical antiquity to the present day, sheds light on more than the economics of antiquity. Coins tell the histories of ancient kings and peasants, artisans and soldiers, cities and empires, civilizations and territories.

Old Money has three primary goals: First, it provides an opportunity to examine the cultures of Classical antiquity through primary objects. Second, it is a virtual exhibition of artifacts in Vassar's museum that can be toured and enjoyed without traveling to Vassar College itself. Third, Old Money is a pedagogical endeavor, used and, in great part, created by Vassar's students.

Visitors can explore Old Money in several ways. You can tour one of several exhibits developed by Vassar students. These exhibits a small thematic group of coins in a linear fashion similar to a true museum experience complete with "wall text." You can search the coins yourself to find a specific piece or collect issues to create a individual exhibit. The ability to browse a museum's entire collection, rather than the small portion of exceptional objects usually on display, is a wonderful experience even in a virtual environment. Finally you can begin from a collection of short informational articles on ancient numismatics written by Vassar students using the collection. However you choose to approach Old Money, wehope that you find your experience enjoyable and educational. Comments and criticicism are always welcome.