I read once that in the early days of the US Mint, the public counted on them to make Tokens and Medals for the early Expositions, Festivals and other events. Even some smaller sized local events. Anyone know of a book I can pick up that would identify any Medals or Tokens that were minted by them? I could be wrong but I think they may have made this 1899 Philadelphia Token. I don't think they made the 1891 Teacher's Annuity Token tho', I'm just showing it off as that's what I collect, Tokens! I just looked at the SCD reference, linked below. In the late 1800's there were a ton of die sinkers around and anyone could have made these Tokens, anyone know who made these? https://so-calleddollars.com/Events/Philadelphia_Exposition.html
I dunno anything much beyond what they say on them... and the fact that I want that second one with the hole! Srsly, tho', that's got such a great design. Never seen one before.
Medals of the US Mint: The First Century 1792 - 1892 by R. W. Julian There are two copies on Abebooks right now. One for $80 and one for $95.
Like Lordmarco, dunno nuthin, however I would think the second has a better chance of being US Mint produced due to the quality of the strike and design. The first one is just too crude. Z
That is true and there is a lot of correspondence in the archives on the subject. Whether it was proper, complaints about the mint competing with the private sector, unjust compensation for the engraver/coiner, mint workmen being paid by the government doing private work on government time, workmen not being compensated. use of government equipment for a private business etc etc etc.
