The Moon Metal

The Moon Metal is a late 19th-century science fiction novel by Garrett Putman Serviss. It follows Dr. Max Syx, a metallurgist who claims to have discovered a new metal called 'artemisium' that could replace gold as the world's monetary standard. The story begins with the revelation of gold at the South Pole, which incites a financial panic and a rush to the new goldfields, leading to questions about the true nature of Dr. Syx and his claims. The novel explores themes of greed, innovation, and the consequences of wealth.