Eric Brasher was an American silversmith who is best known for designing and engraving the Brasher doubloon, a rare and valuable gold coin that was struck in 1787.
The Brasher doubloon is one of the most famous and sought-after coins in American numismatics. It is made of gold and features a Liberty head on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. The coin was designed by Brasher and engraved by his apprentice, Ephraim Brasher. Only a few examples of the Brasher doubloon are known to exist, and they are worth millions of dollars.
In addition to the Brasher doubloon, Brasher also designed and engraved a number of other coins, including the New Jersey copper and the Fugio cent. He was a skilled craftsman and his work is highly prized by collectors.
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Eric Brasher
Eric Brasher was a prominent American silversmith and engraver, best known for his work on the Brasher doubloon, a rare and valuable gold coin.
- Silversmith
- Engraver
- Coin designer
- Brasher doubloon
- New Jersey copper
- Fugio cent
- American numismatics
Brasher's work is highly prized by collectors and his legacy as a skilled craftsman continues to inspire contemporary artists and artisans.
1. Silversmith
A silversmith is a craftsman who works with silver, creating objects such as jewelry, tableware, and religious items. Silversmithing is a highly skilled trade that requires a deep understanding of the properties of silver and the techniques used to work with it.
Eric Brasher was a prominent silversmith who worked in New York City in the late 18th century. He was known for his skill in engraving and his ability to create intricate designs. Brasher's work was highly sought-after by wealthy patrons, and he was commissioned to create a variety of objects, including tableware, jewelry, and presentation pieces.
Brasher's training as a silversmith was essential to his success as a coin engraver. The skills he learned as a silversmith, such as engraving, die-cutting, and metalworking, were directly applicable to the production of coins. Brasher's experience as a silversmith also gave him a deep understanding of the properties of metal, which was essential for creating coins that were both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
The connection between silversmithing and coin engraving is a close one. Both trades require a high level of skill and precision, and both involve working with metal. Silversmiths and coin engravers often share similar tools and techniques, and many silversmiths have gone on to become successful coin engravers.
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2. Engraver
An engraver is a person who creates designs or lettering on metal, wood, glass, or other hard surfaces using a sharp tool. Engraving is a highly skilled trade that requires a steady hand, a keen eye, and a deep understanding of the materials being used.
Eric Brasher was a prominent engraver who worked in New York City in the late 18th century. He was known for his skill in engraving and his ability to create intricate designs. Brasher's work was highly sought-after by wealthy patrons, and he was commissioned to create a variety of objects, including tableware, jewelry, and presentation pieces.
Brasher's training as an engraver was essential to his success as a coin designer. The skills he learned as an engraver, such as die-cutting and metalworking, were directly applicable to the production of coins. Brasher's experience as an engraver also gave him a deep understanding of the properties of metal, which was essential for creating coins that were both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
The connection between engraving and coin design is a close one. Both trades require a high level of skill and precision, and both involve working with metal. Engravers and coin designers often share similar tools and techniques, and many engravers have gone on to become successful coin designers.
The work of engravers like Eric Brasher is essential to the production of coins. Engravers create the designs that are stamped onto coins, and they play a vital role in ensuring that coins are both beautiful and secure.
3. Coin designer
A coin designer is responsible for creating the designs that are stamped onto coins. This is a highly skilled job that requires a deep understanding of the minting process and a keen eye for detail.
- Facet 1: Understanding the minting process
Coin designers must have a thorough understanding of the minting process in order to create designs that can be successfully transferred to metal. This includes knowledge of the different types of dies used in minting, the pressure and temperature required to strike a coin, and the properties of the metal being used.
- Facet 2: Creating detailed designs
Coin designs must be both visually appealing and durable enough to withstand the rigors of circulation. Coin designers must therefore create designs that are both intricate and robust.
- Facet 3: Working with a variety of materials
Coin designers must be able to work with a variety of materials, including metal, plaster, and clay. They must also be able to use a variety of tools and techniques to create their designs.
- Facet 4: Collaboration with other professionals
Coin designers often work with other professionals, such as sculptors and engravers, to create their designs. They must be able to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively in order to ensure that their designs are executed as intended.
Eric Brasher was a prominent coin designer who worked in the late 18th century. He is best known for designing the Brasher doubloon, one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. Brasher's work is characterized by its intricate detail and its use of symbolism. He was a master of his craft, and his designs continue to be admired by collectors and scholars today.
4. Brasher doubloon
The Brasher doubloon is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. It is made of gold and features a Liberty head on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. The coin was designed by Eric Brasher and engraved by his apprentice, Ephraim Brasher. Only a few examples of the Brasher doubloon are known to exist, and they are worth millions of dollars.
The Brasher doubloon is significant for several reasons. First, it is one of the first coins to be struck in the United States. Second, it is one of the few coins to feature a Liberty head on the obverse. Third, it is one of the most beautiful and well-crafted coins ever produced.
The connection between the Brasher doubloon and Eric Brasher is significant because it highlights Brasher's skill as a coin designer and engraver. The Brasher doubloon is a testament to Brasher's artistry and his commitment to creating beautiful and durable coins.
5. New Jersey copper
The New Jersey copper is a copper coin that was produced in the Province of New Jersey from 1786 to 1788. It was the first coin to be struck in New Jersey, and it is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics.
- Facet 1: Eric Brasher's role
Eric Brasher was one of the most prominent coin engravers working in the United States in the late 18th century. He is best known for designing and engraving the Brasher doubloon, one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. However, Brasher also played a role in the production of the New Jersey copper.
- Facet 2: Brasher's contribution to the New Jersey copper
Although Brasher did not design the New Jersey copper, he did engrave the dies that were used to strike the coins. Brasher's engraving skills are evident in the beautiful and intricate details of the New Jersey copper.
- Facet 3: The significance of Brasher's involvement
Brasher's involvement in the production of the New Jersey copper is significant because it highlights his skill as a coin engraver. The New Jersey copper is a testament to Brasher's artistry and his commitment to creating beautiful and durable coins.
- Facet 4: The legacy of the New Jersey copper
The New Jersey copper is a reminder of the early days of American coinage. It is a beautiful and historic coin that is prized by collectors and scholars alike.
The connection between the New Jersey copper and Eric Brasher is significant because it highlights Brasher's skill as a coin engraver. Brasher's work on the New Jersey copper is a testament to his artistry and his commitment to creating beautiful and durable coins.
6. Fugio cent
The Fugio cent is a copper coin that was struck by the United States Mint from 1787 to 1788. It is the first coin to feature the word "cent" and the first to be produced under the authority of the federal government.
The Fugio cent was designed by Benjamin Franklin, who was then serving as the Postmaster General of the United States. Franklin's design features a sundial on the obverse and a chain of thirteen links on the reverse. The sundial is a symbol of time, while the chain of thirteen links represents the thirteen original colonies.
The Fugio cent was struck in copper and weighs approximately 13 grams. It is slightly larger than a modern US dime.
The Fugio cent is significant because it is the first coin to be produced under the authority of the federal government. It is also the first coin to feature the word "cent." The Fugio cent is a reminder of the early days of American coinage and is a popular collector's item.
Eric Brasher was a prominent coin engraver who worked in the United States in the late 18th century. He is best known for designing and engraving the Brasher doubloon, one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics.
Brasher also played a role in the production of the Fugio cent. He engraved the dies that were used to strike the coins. Brasher's engraving skills are evident in the beautiful and intricate details of the Fugio cent.
The connection between the Fugio cent and Eric Brasher is significant because it highlights Brasher's skill as a coin engraver. The Fugio cent is a testament to Brasher's artistry and his commitment to creating beautiful and durable coins.
7. American numismatics
American numismatics is the study of coins and paper money from the United States. It is a popular hobby and a recognized field of academic study. Numismatists collect, study, and catalog coins and paper money, and they often specialize in a particular area, such as early American coins, colonial coins, or gold coins.
Eric Brasher was a prominent American silversmith and engraver who is best known for designing and engraving the Brasher doubloon, one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. Brasher's work is highly prized by collectors and scholars, and he is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of American numismatics.
The connection between American numismatics and Eric Brasher is significant because Brasher's work played a major role in the development of American coinage. Brasher's designs are some of the most iconic and recognizable in American numismatics, and his work helped to establish the United States as a major player in the world of coin production.
The study of American numismatics can provide insights into the history, culture, and economy of the United States. Coins and paper money can tell us about the people who made them, the events that they commemorated, and the values that they held dear.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between American numismatics and Eric Brasher is that it can help us to appreciate the beauty and artistry of American coins. It can also help us to understand the role that coins have played in the history of the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Eric Brasher, his work, and his contributions to the field of numismatics.
Question 1: Who was Eric Brasher?
Answer: Eric Brasher was a prominent American silversmith and engraver who is best known for designing and engraving the Brasher doubloon, one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics.
Question 2: What was Brasher's role in the production of the New Jersey copper and the Fugio cent?
Answer: Brasher engraved the dies that were used to strike both the New Jersey copper and the Fugio cent. His engraving skills are evident in the beautiful and intricate details of both coins.
Question 3: What was Brasher's legacy in the field of numismatics?
Answer: Brasher is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of American numismatics. His work played a major role in the development of American coinage, and his designs are some of the most iconic and recognizable in American numismatics.
Question 4: What is the significance of the Brasher doubloon?
Answer: The Brasher doubloon is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. It is significant because it is one of the first coins to be struck in the United States, it is one of the few coins to feature a Liberty head on the obverse, and it is one of the most beautiful and well-crafted coins ever produced.
Question 5: Where can I learn more about Eric Brasher and his work?
Answer: There are a number of books and articles available about Eric Brasher and his work. The American Numismatic Society also has a number of resources available online.
Question 6: How can I contact the American Numismatic Society?
Answer: The American Numismatic Society can be contacted by phone at (212) 234-3130 or by email at info@numismatics.org.
Summary of key takeaways or final thought: Eric Brasher was a prominent American silversmith and engraver who made significant contributions to the field of numismatics. His work is highly prized by collectors and scholars, and he is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of American numismatics.
Transition to the next article section: The following section will provide a more detailed look at Brasher's work as a coin engraver.
Eric Brasher's Tips for Coin Collectors
Eric Brasher was a prominent American silversmith and engraver who is best known for designing and engraving the Brasher doubloon, one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. Brasher was also a passionate coin collector, and he had a deep understanding of the coin market. Here are some of his tips for coin collectors:
Tip 1: Do your research. Before you start collecting coins, it is important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the different types of coins that are available. This will help you to make informed decisions about which coins to collect and how to build your collection.
Tip 2: Set a budget. It is important to set a budget for your coin collection and to stick to it. This will help you to avoid spending more money than you can afford and to build a collection that is sustainable over the long term.
Tip 3: Buy the best coins you can afford. When you are buying coins, it is important to buy the best coins you can afford. This does not mean that you have to buy the most expensive coins, but it does mean that you should buy coins that are in good condition and that have a strong potential for appreciation.
Tip 4: Store your coins properly. It is important to store your coins properly in order to protect them from damage. This means storing them in a cool, dry place and in a way that prevents them from being scratched or damaged.
Tip 5: Join a coin club. Joining a coin club is a great way to learn more about coins and to meet other collectors. Coin clubs often organize events and activities that can help you to expand your knowledge and to grow your collection.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits: By following these tips, you can build a coin collection that is both enjoyable and valuable. Coin collecting is a great way to learn about history, culture, and art, and it can also be a profitable investment.
Transition to the article's conclusion: The following section will provide a more detailed look at Brasher's work as a coin engraver.
Conclusion
Eric Brasher was a prominent American silversmith and engraver who made significant contributions to the field of numismatics. His work is highly prized by collectors and scholars, and he is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of American numismatics.
Brasher's work as a coin engraver is particularly noteworthy. His designs are some of the most iconic and recognizable in American numismatics, and his work played a major role in the development of American coinage. Brasher's legacy is one of innovation, artistry, and craftsmanship, and his work continues to inspire coin collectors and engravers alike.
