James B. Longacre

James Barton Longacre ( born August 11, 1794 in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, † January 1, 1869 ) was an American portrait painter and engraver, who was the fourth Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 until his death.

Career

At the age of twelve he left home and began an apprenticeship in a bookstore. After his artistic talent was recognized, he was apprenticed to an engraver. He portrayed important personalities, including the Senator from South Carolina, John C. Calhoun.

After the death of Christian Gobrecht in 1844 he succeeded him as chief engraver at the Mint of Philadelphia. The mint was initially led by the Mint Director Robert M. Patterson and Chief Coiner Franklin Peale and there was a conflict between Longacre and his superiors after he had designed a new gold dollar and double eagle. He would have been almost dismissed if not Treasury William M. Meredith would have used for him. Patterson and Peale left the mint in the early 1850s, so that the conflict was extinguished.

After his sudden death on New Year's Day 1869 William Barber became his successor. Longacres coins are today very much appreciated, although they are sometimes criticized for its lack of progress.

Known coins ( selection)

Two cent coin, 1865

Three - dollar coin, 1878

Indian Head Cent, 1909