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Happy Birthday, William Kneass!

2021-09-20 16:00:00
Happy Birthday, William Kneass!
Posted in: News, News

Happy Birthday, William Kneass!

On Saturday the numismatic community celebrated the 241st anniversary of the birth of William Kneass. As the second Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, Kneass provided a tremendous model to follow for future engravers.

Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Kneass devoted much of his early life to learning the art of engraving. Through devotion to his craft, he excelled in line engraving and also demonstrated skill in stipple engraving and aquatint. Much of his early professional experience came in engraving plates for books. After building a reputation for himself, he opened an engraving shop of his own in Philadelphia. The business was a success and became known as a popular gathering place for “leading wits and men of culture.” In addition to his original shop, Kneass found employment at two other businesses to don his name: Young & Kneass & Co. and Kneass & Dellaker.

During the War of 1812, Kneass heeded the call of duty and served his country as an associate volunteer for the Field Engineers. Throughout the war effort, he constructed fortifications on the western front of Philadelphia.

Following the death of Robert Scot in January 1824, Kneass was appointed Chief Engraver of the US Mint. He competed for the position against the legendary Christian Gobrecht, but Kneass is believed to have gotten an edge from a recommendation given by his close friend Adam Eckfeldts, the Mint’s Chief Coiner.

Kneass’ day-to-day responsibilities as Chief Engraver largely consisted of overseeing the production of gold and silver at the Mint. His greatest accomplishment for which he is known, however, is his rendering of the Classic Head motif. This iconic depiction of Lady Liberty was used on the Quarter Eagle and the Half Eagle from 1834 to 1839. Additionally, he modified John Reich’s capped bust design for a half dime that circulated from 1829 to 1837 and a quarter used from 1831 to 1838.

Kneass was adored by those who knew him, once referred to as “a gentleman of the old-school.” His professionalism and devotion to his craft set a wonderful precedent and have inspired Mint engravers for centuries since.