Forget the Poker Chips
By now, we have all heard that money doesn't grow on trees, but how many people know that at one time in Canada a jack of hearts playing card could help buy you a loaf of bread? This and many other "did you know" facts about money await you at the Bank of Canada's Currency Museum. With eight galleries recounting the development of money from 500 BC to the present, not surprisingly, the Currency Museum is quite possibly the best place in the world to learn about the history of Canada's money. In fact, the Collector's Corner in the eighth gallery is the site of the most thorough display of Canadian numismatic material around.

Say What?
Numismatics is a term referring to the study of coins, tokens and paper money, and the Currency Museum takes this concept very seriously. You can follow the evolution of currency in Canada from its pre-colonial beginnings, through the French and English Colonial periods, to the loonies and twoonies of today. Definitely a fascinating way to learn the value of a dollar! But, let us not forget the rest of the world. The museum's collection ranges from pieces as large and exotic as the Yap stone (a three-ton stone from the Caroline Islands) to the small and humble penny.

How Much?
For a museum about money, the entrance fee is quite reasonable - in fact, it's free. Located in the centre block of the Bank of Canada on Sparks Street, the Museum is a short walk away from other downtown Ottawa attractions. On your next free day, entertain yourself and your family with a fun fact-finding tour of monetary history. That way, the next time someone tells you money doesn't grow on trees, you can astound them with your new found numismatic knowledge!