NNP

Courtesy of Roger Burdette, the identity of an early Mint researcher has been uncovered. In 1899, Philadelphia Mint Superintendent Daniel M. Fox wrote to Mint Director James P. Kimball regarding the research work of Henry W. Crotzer, a cutter in the coining department at the Philadelphia Mint. Prior to the transfer of Mint records to the National Archives in the 1930s, the only way to examine historical records was within the Mint itself, and access would have been much easier for someone who was already a Mint employee. 

Fox first describes Crotzer’s work in processing archival material from the Post Office (where old Mint records were stored) and then writes “he has made up a very large book showing the correct coinage for each year by denominations – which is a very valuable record for reference….in making up this book he made careful examination and comparison, step by step, of books and records in the office of the Coiner of this Mint, especially comparing and verifying the records, checking errors, and when possible harmonizing discrepancies.”

Historical research tends to ask more questions than it answers, and, while the discovery of the identity of Crotzer is an interesting tidbit, one can only wonder as to the disposition of Crotzer’s “very large book.” Is it today preserved in some dusty corner of the Mint or in the Director’s office? 

Link to Daniel M. Fox letter summarizing Henry W. Crotzer’s work: https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/642906

Documenting a nearly 50-year quest, Michael Bourne’s Comprehensive Catalog of 3c Patterns serves not only as the definitive catalog of the U.S. 3-cent pattern series, but also chronicles the formation of this important father-and-son collection. The U.S. Mint produced nearly a hundred different 3-cent patterns (including the off-metal strikes), dated 1849 to 1885. Bourne provides commentary for each issue, presents an extensive list of market appearances, and lists the finest known pieces. This is no mere recitation of auction catalog listings drawn from online resources, but rather a deep exploration of the literature than has uncovered examples in fixed price lists, private collections, and institutional cabinets. 

Judd, Davis, Adams-Woodin, and Pollock numbers are all cross-referenced. Bourne would have been more than justified in renumbering the entire series, but, with respect to Dr. Judd, he has instead suggested a set of changes to future editions of the Judd reference. As such, this work will be an indispensable companion to Judd’s United States Pattern Coins.

Multi-generational collections are the exception rather than the rule, as the collecting gene is not always transmitted from parents to children. The Bourne collection demonstrates a sustained commitment to a single idea, and it is completely appropriate that Michael has memorialized the collection in a comprehensive and authoritative manner.  

Link to Comprehensive Catalog of 3c Patterns on Newman Portal: https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/booksbyauthor/554217