This volume investigates the pervasive role of copper and its alloys in the daily lives of early Americans. Donald L. Fennimore, drawing on the extensive collections at Winterthur, explores the significance of brass, bronze, and paktong from the earliest settlements through the first two centuries of American history. The book details the mining and manufacturing processes, the complex marketing networks for raw materials and finished goods, and the practices surrounding the marking of metals by their makers. These foundational essays precede detailed discussions of over three hundred individual objects, providing context for their metallurgical content, function, fabrication, history, and social significance.

This book is regarded as a comprehensive scholarly treatment of early American metalwork, particularly focusing on copper and its alloys. The detailed catalog of objects, supported by essays on production and distribution, makes it a valuable resource for historians and collectors alike. Its reliance on the Winterthur collections ensures a high standard of artifact analysis and historical context. The work provides a thorough examination of the material culture and industrial history of the period.