This week’s headlines include a new book about California bank notes, 2026 semiquincentennial coin designs, Madison County Coin Club medal, and Military Payment Certificates.
A new book by Dennis Hengeveld explores California’s cultural, economic, and social development through its paper money. Paper Dreams: A History of California Through Its Paper Money is richly illustrated with bank notes, contemporary postcards, photos, newspaper clippings, and more.
Photo: Getty Images/Jitalia17
The Commission of Fine Arts recommended designs for the semiquincentennial dime, half dollar, and five quarters to be released in celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. The quarters will illustrate the following themes (in order of their release): Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, abolitionism, suffrage, and civil rights.
Photo: U.S. Mint
The Madison County Coin Club of Huntsville, Alabama, will issue a 2025 club medal. The main motifs mimic Bela Lyon Pratt’s half eagle (gold $5) design, with additional obverse and reverse inscriptions around the rim that highlight the Madison County Coin Club and its mission.
Photo: Madison County Coin Club
Collector Bill McNease has consigned his Military Payment Certificate (MPC) collection to Stack’s Bowers Galleries. His collection, which McNease has spent 40-plus years assembling, comprises around 500 MPCs, including many replacements and regular-issue certificates in excellent condition.
