Exchange Media (Hierarchy Name)

The Exchange Media hierarchy contains descriptors for objects given a specific value to be used in the exchange of goods and services and in the settlement of debts. This includes items usable in a variety of circumstances, whether in general circulation (e.g., "coins") or items with a more restricted use, often designated for the exchange of specific goods and services (e.g., "tickets") Most of the descriptors are coin names.Relation to Other Hierarchies: Descriptors for sets of exchange media (e.g., "plate number blocks") are found in the Object Groupings and Systems hierarchy. Those descriptors that designate the materials used in fabricating exchange media (e.g., "cupronickel") are placed in the Materials hierarchy, and those describing the ways exchange media are manufactured (e.g., "minting") are placed in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy. In the Information Forms hierarchy are found descriptors for the various identifying symbols or abbreviations found on various types of exchange medium (e.g., "mintmarks") as well as descriptors for business and financial records (e.g., "stock certificates").