U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentEasy

A civics test applicant is asked about the specific powers granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution. Which of the following is a power reserved exclusively for the federal government?

  1. ACoining money
  2. BIssuing driver's licenses
  3. CEstablishing local governments
  4. DProviding for public education
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Coining money

The power to coin money is an enumerated power specifically granted to the federal government in the U.S. Constitution, preventing states from creating their own currencies and ensuring a uniform economic system. The other options are powers typically reserved to the states.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Issuing driver's licenses is a power reserved to the states.
  • C. Establishing local governments is a power reserved to the states.
  • D. Providing for public education is a power typically reserved to state and local governments.

Federal Government Power (Coin Money)

The U.S. Constitution grants specific powers to the federal government, including the exclusive authority to coin money, which is essential for a unified national economy.

  • Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution lists federal powers.
  • Coining money prevents states from issuing their own currencies.
  • Ensures a stable and uniform economic system nationwide.

Memory trick: Federal government's wallet holds the only coins.

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