The Art of Money Getting

“The Art of Money Getting, or Golden Rules for Making Money” is a book by P. T. Barnum, first published in 1880. In this concise yet impactful guide, the famed showman and entrepreneur distills his hard-earned lessons on building wealth—not through schemes or shortcuts, but through honest, disciplined practices.

Drawing from his own experience founding a museum, circus, and myriad entertainment ventures, Barnum delivers 20 pragmatic rules covering topics such as choosing the right vocation, avoiding debt, saving, investing, integrity, courtesy, and perseverance.

As a cultural artifact, this booklet reflects late 19th-century American values of self-reliance and industriousness. It has influenced generations of self-help and business authors, serving as a precursor to modern personal-finance literature. Its emphasis on character, frugality, and intelligent work ethic continues to resonate, offering timeless advice for both entrepreneurs and general readers alike.