Numismatics

  The New Orleans Mint, also known as the Old U.S. Mint, played a significant role in American coinage history before ceasing coin production and transitioning to other uses. Here's what happened to the New Orleans Mint: Establishment and Coinage : The New Orleans Mint was established by the United States Congress in 1835 to serve the booming economy of the southern United States. It began minting operations in 1838, producing gold and silver coins, as well as circulating coins such as dimes, quarters, half dollars, and gold eagles. Civil War and Reconstruction : During the American Civil War, the New Orleans Mint was seized by Confederate forces in 1861. It continued to produce Confederate coinage until it was captured by Union forces in 1862. After the war, the Mint resumed operations under federal control but faced challenges due to the post-war economy and the decline of the city's importance as a commercial center. Ceased Coinage Operations : The New Orleans Mint ceased co...

  The Mercury dime, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, is one of the most beloved and iconic coins in American numismatic history. Here's a brief history along with some key dates: History: Design and Introduction : The Mercury dime was designed by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman. It features a depiction of Liberty wearing a winged cap, commonly mistaken for the Roman god Mercury (hence the nickname "Mercury dime"), on the obverse (front) and a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe) on the reverse (back), symbolizing strength and unity. The coin was first minted in 1916, replacing the Barber dime. Composition : The Mercury dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, which was standard for U.S. silver coins at the time. Years of Production : The Mercury dime was produced from 1916 to 1945, with mintages occurring at various U.S. Mint facilities, including Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Key Dates and Mintages: 1916-D : The Denver mint issue of the inau...

  The Jefferson nickel holds a significant place in American numismatic history, having been in circulation for over eight decades. Here's an overview of its history: Origin and Design : The Jefferson nickel was introduced in 1938, replacing the Buffalo nickel. Its design features a left-facing portrait of President Thomas Jefferson on the obverse (front) and Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate, on the reverse (back). The design was created by Felix Schlag, a German-born artist who won a national competition for the new nickel design. Debut and Production : The Jefferson nickel made its debut in 1938, and production continued uninterrupted until today, with various modifications to the design and composition over the years. The Mint initially struck the nickel in a 75% copper and 25% nickel alloy. War-Time Composition Change : During World War II, the composition of the Jefferson nickel changed due to the strategic importance of nickel in the war effort. From 1942 to 1945, ...

  The history of the United States Mint is rich and diverse, spanning over two centuries. Here's a concise overview: Establishment : The U.S. Mint was established on April 2, 1792, through the Coinage Act of 1792, signed into law by President George Washington. Its primary purpose was to standardize and regulate the nation's coinage. First Mint : The first U.S. Mint building was constructed in Philadelphia, then the nation's capital, in 1792. It began operations in 1793 and produced copper, silver, and gold coins. Expansion : Over time, the Mint expanded its operations, opening branches in other cities to meet the growing demand for coinage. The first branch mint was established in 1835 in Charlotte, North Carolina, followed by others in New Orleans, Louisiana; Dahlonega, Georgia; and San Francisco, California. Coinage Changes : Throughout its history, the Mint has produced numerous iconic coins, including the Flowing Hair Dollar, the Liberty Head Nickel, the Indian Head Pe...

  The United States Mint has issued a call for artists to join in its Artistic Infusion Program (AIP). Established in 2003, the Mint AIP contracts with gifted, professional American artists who represent diverse backgrounds and a variety of interests. The AIP was specifically designed with the objective of enriching and invigorating the designs of United States coins and medals. The program meets that goal by developing a pool of talented external artists who are prepared to work closely with the Mint’s staff, including the chief engraver and Medallia artists, to create and submit new designs for selected coin and medal programs throughout the year. Interested artists are highly encouraged to submit applications for consideration. The Mint will be accepting applications for the program beginning at noon EST Jan. 23. Applicants must fill out an application form and submit five to 10 images of work from their portfolio. The Mint is especially interested in artists who will bri...