Dear MMDs,  In order to compare the evolution of the prices of goods
(and why not the mechanical music instruments?) during the XXth century
(and even before), economists use various price indexes, and especially
a general consumer index.  Although it should be used cautiously, it
gives nevertheless an idea of the depreciation (or appreciation) of a
currency over a long period of time.

I tried to find the one related to the US dollar, but could not find
it, even in the Encyclopaedia Britannica (or perhaps I did not look in
the right place ... ).

Could anyone send me such an index (or publish it on the MMD, because
it may interest many of us), or at least give me an idea of what a 1900
US$ (and a 1920, and a 1940 ...) would be worth today ?

I thank you in advance,

Best regards,

Philippe Rouille  (Paris, France)
rouille@cnam.fr
http://www.cnam.fr/museum/musica_mecanica/

 [ I think nowadays it's called the Consumer Price Index.  Maybe the
 [ history is charted at a web site somewhere.  -- Robbie