OUGD505 Studio Brief 1 - The History of Money

OUGD505 Studio Brief 1 - The History of Money

Paper currency first developed in Tang Dynasty China during the 7th century, although true paper money did not appear until the 11th century, during the Song Dynasty. The usage of paper currency later spread throughout the Mongol Empire. European explorers like Marco Polo introduced the concept in Europe during the 13th century. As early man began to rear domestic livestock, one of the earliest forms of barter included cattle, sheep, as well as vegetables and grain. The first known currency was created by King Alyattes in Lydia, now part of Turkey, in 600BC. The first coin ever minted features a roaring lion. Coins then evolved into bank notes around 1661 AD. The first credit card was introduced in 1946.

Designing and printing notes is a complex process: to make counterfeiting as difficult as possible, specialised inks are produced on site and some images are engraved by hand onto metal plates, while others are created digitally and laser etched on to film. Watermarks are engraved using wax and, like the metal foil in bank notes, are embedded during the paper manufacturing process.

Money is many different things at the same time. It’s a work of art, a medium of exchange, a representation of value, one, which most people take for granted.
Everybody has their own answers when it comes to money yet we think that it is more generative and engaging to think about values and doubt. Money creates a mood of euphoria. Money is one of the major constituents in determining what our lives feel like, what our typical day feels like. Money also represents our society. It’s everywhere but money is just an idea – an abstract measurement.