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U. S. Mint Superintendent Medals: Relics of the Past posted by MBC

Started by CSJournals-migration,

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CSJournals-migration

CSJournals-migration

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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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centinel

centinel

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I stand corrected concerning William Barber, thanks. Didn't mean to post journal, and it got out without a photo of said medal. See NGC 2655617-001.

I also have one of Eugene Townsend, of which only 64 were said to be struck, but it's in pitiful condition. Sorry to say it's not worth submitting, but I'm still looking.

R.W. Julian's "Medals Of The U.S. Mint: The First Century 1792-1892," is still the benchmark, but a second volume is badly needed.

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