Herman Kretz Mint Superintendent Medal

Not many non-medal collectors are aware that at one time the U.S. Mint struck medals for the superintendent of the Philadelphia Mint. Only five superintendents were featured, and all are considered scarce. I rarely find them at auctions and eBay, and when I do I am always searching for a better specimen. The older strikes (pre 1900) have a wonderful chocolate/burgundy patina that you just have to see in person. I recently had this one slabbed and am happy with the MS-63 grade. William Barber did the engraving, and I consider his 1895 bust of Herman Kretz one of his finest moments. Mint records indicate only 148 pieces were struck. These cost $2 when issued, which was also the daily wage for an average male worker in 1895.

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