LITERATURE + LECTURES

The Houston Museum of Natural Science presents an HMNS Distinguished Lecture Series.  Fascinating Speakers, Cutting Edge Science.  Hear about the latest scientific discoveries - from the world's foremost experts. Throughout the year, HMNS hosts a variety of distinguished lecturers to enhance your understanding of a current exhibition or provide new perspectives on captivating topics.

Tuesday, January 24
The Untold Story of Confederate Coins
James P. Bevill, (pictured) Financial Historian

While Confederate paper money was rendered all but worthless due to massive propagation, the Confederate cents and half dollars are ultra-rare pieces which tell the story of a handful of men who sought to capitalize on these rarities after the war.

James Bevill will treat the audience to the vivid story of the clandestine efforts by the Confederate States of America to produce a national coinage in 1861, struck at the New Orleans mint, only to go underground.

James Bevill is a financial historian who focuses on Texas and Confederate money and its role in our culture and history. He is a First Vice President - Investments in the River Oaks office of UBS Financial Services in Houston. Following the lecture, Bevill will sign copies of his book The Paper Republic: The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas.