Dig™

Travel into the past with DIG^TM as archaeologists and historians explore the mysteries of ancient civilizations through what they left behind. Read about the cultural, scientific, and architectural accomplishments of societies from all corners of the world.


Each issue features articles about the latest archaeological discoveries, photos of artifacts and works in progress, clever puzzles, and hands-on projects. The use of primary sources to learn about the ancient world will inspire students to continue to explore the past on their own.

• Latest discoveries and recent developments form the core subject matter
• Ask Dr. Dig - our resident archaeologist answers your questions
• Leading archaeologists write articles in every issue

"What a fantastic resource and educational tool - I only wish I had the opportunity to read DIG^TM in my childhood days."   - March Hilveda, President, Into Archaeology

MONEY (Mar, 2007)

Money - just how old is the concept? What did people use for money in ancient times? How do we know? The questions are endless, but DIGTM is anxious to take you into this fascinating world, checking out old finds and new finds. We'll also take a side trip to Asia Minor (that's modern day Turkey) where the first coins are said to have been minted. Then, it's a long flight to China. What's there will surprise you: They're called spade coins, knife coins, round coins (some fashioned with holes in them), and even some called "tin animal money." And, there's more - a cowrie shell found at Monticello has a real interesting story to tell, as do 'oxhide' ingots found in a s shipwreck. Here's an issue that will make you look and think twice the next time you see a quarter, dime, or dollar bill!

ABOUT THE COVER

No mistaking these thin gold-colored, metal-looking circles for anything else but coins. But, they are not the only method of payment. This issue will introduce you to lots more.

CONSULTING EDITORS

DIG would like to thank Chaddie Kruger(chair of foreign languages at Texas Military Institute in San Antonio), Daniel Kruger (classical numismatist), Lois Miner Huey (archaeologist), Elena Miklashevich (senior lecturer in archaeology and museology at Kemerovo State University, Siberia), Robert B. Pickering (deputy director for Collections and Education at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Whyoming), Margarete Pruch (archaeologist and teacher of Chinese and Chinese history at Hansenberg International School, Geisenheim, Germany), and Orrin Shane(archaeologist and museum management consultant) for their invaluable help with this issue.