<p>With the outbreak of the U. S. Civil War in 1861, the Confederate States of America began issuing its own paper money. Over the years, seven different series of currency were issued. Counterfeiting became a significant problem for the South, as did depreciation and inflation. By the end of the war, the notes were worthless, but within the decade their collectability was on the rise. Today, some notes can easily garner thousands of dollars. Uniquely designed and hand-signed, the paper money of the South tells the story of the new nation. Confederate currency expert Pierre Fricke illustrates the history of the South's money in Confederate Currency. Neither a price guide nor a catalog per se (see <i>Collecting Confederate Paper Money</i> by Pierre Fricke), Confederate Currency explains the origins of the various notes issued by the South, putting the money into historical context. Fricke also briefly discusses the dissolution of the Union and examines the collectability of Confederate Currency.</p>