History Of The United States Mint and Its Coinage by David Lange (2005, Hardcover)

In conjunction with the American Numismatic Association, author David W. Lange and researcher Mary Jo Meade present a fascinating look into the history of the United States Mint. From its roots in the pre-colonial and colonial eras, through independence and confederation, the intrigues, tribulations, and triumphs of the 1800's and into the modern day -- through war, peace, famine, earthquakes, gold rushes, good times and bad -- we follow the twists and turns of one of the federal government's most intriguing bureaus.

Every major U.S. mint is described in detail: Philadelphia, San Francisco, Denver, and New Orleans; as well as the branch mints of Charlotte North Carolina, Dahlonega Georgia, Carson City, and West Point -- and even the mint set up in Manila, in the Philippines, by the U.S. government. Along the way we learn about the California Gold Rush, the Civil War and its effects on America's economy, the fierce battles of silver vs. gold, how world events Affected U.S. coins, and more.

- Historical, technical, and artistic details of the Mint and its coins.

- Vintage photographs and documents throughout.

- Hundreds of enlarged, high-detailed imaged of American coins, tokens, and medals.
- Special "Mint Topics" on 1964 silver dollars, bullion coins, state quarters, new nickels, and more.

"If you're not already a coin collector when you start to read this rich and romantic history, you'll be inspired by the time you finish!" -- Q. David Bowers, past president of the ANA

Myself, I would recomend almost anything published by Whitman Publishing.