The recent acquisition of unique numismatic pieces has unveiled a fascinating chapter of American coin history. Professional numismatist Mike Byers recently acquired a plaster model and galvanos from sculptor Howard K. Weinman’s 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar design. Held by Weinman’s family since his passing, these artifacts had been unknown to the numismatic world until now. These historical items include plaster models and silver-plated galvanos mounted on mahogany, along with photos and documentation that reveal the intricate process of designing commemorative coins. This discovery offers a unique look into Howard Weinman’s contributions and the intricate coin design process.
Table of Contents
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. History of the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar | Overview of the coin’s history and significance in American numismatics. |
| 2. Discovery and Acquisition by Mike Byers | Details on the acquisition of the coin models and galvanos by Mike Byers. |
| 3. Significance of Howard Weinman’s Coin Design | The artistic and historical importance of Howard Weinman’s design. |
| 4. Exploring the Plaster Model and Galvanos | A detailed look at the plaster model and galvanos acquired by Byers. |
| 5. Howard Weinman’s Artistic Legacy | Discussion of Howard Weinman’s contributions to American coin design. |
| 6. The Numismatic Process Behind Commemorative Coins | Explanation of the numismatic techniques involved in creating commemorative coins. |
| 7. Future Plans for the Collection | Future plans for the auction of the collection in 2025. |
| 8. Final Thoughts on the Long Island Tercentenary Coin Artifacts | A summary of the significance of this discovery and its impact on the numismatic community. |
1. History of the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar
The 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar commemorates 300 years since Dutch settlers arrived in Long Island. Sculpted by Howard K. Weinman, the coin’s design includes a Dutch settler and an Algonquin brave on the obverse, symbolizing cultural interactions. Its reverse features a Dutch sailing ship, emphasizing exploration. This coin remains cherished among collectors, and the recent discovery of its original models provides further insight into its creation.
2. Discovery and Acquisition by Mike Byers
Mike Byers, a well-known numismatist, acquired Howard Weinman’s original plaster model and galvanos of the 1936 half dollar design from Weinman’s family. These artifacts, previously unknown to the numismatic community, were preserved since Weinman’s death in 1976. With these acquisitions, Byers hopes to bring greater awareness to Weinman’s work and potentially auction these pieces for collectors in 2025.
3. Significance of Howard Weinman’s Coin Design
Howard K. Weinman was a notable sculptor and son of Adolph A. Weinman, who designed the iconic Winged Liberty Head dime and Walking Liberty half dollar. Howard’s work on the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar continues his family’s legacy in American coin design. His work represents an era of commemorative coinage that celebrated significant historical milestones.
4. Exploring the Plaster Model and Galvanos
The acquired pieces include a plaster model with a 14-inch diameter and 10-inch inner reverse, as well as two 10-inch galvanos. These models, part of the original design process, illustrate the coin’s details in raised relief. Byers also acquired supporting documentation and photographs of Weinman working on the coin in 1935, offering rare insight into the creation of these artifacts.
5. Howard Weinman’s Artistic Legacy
Howard Weinman’s contributions to numismatic art, alongside his father’s famous designs, hold a special place in American history. His 1936 half dollar design reflects the influence of classical art while celebrating cultural heritage. Howard’s brother, Robert Weinman, was also a renowned medallic sculptor, making the Weinman family an influential force in the field of American sculpture.
6. The Numismatic Process Behind Commemorative Coins
In commemorative coin production, plaster models play a crucial role, acting as initial templates that capture the intended design in a large, detailed format. A galvano, created from a mold of the plaster model, allows for adjustments before creating a final die. In the case of Weinman’s half dollar, galvanos mounted on mahogany plaques were used to capture and display the coin’s design, becoming collectible items themselves.
7. Future Plans for the Collection
Mike Byers plans to hold the collection temporarily and may offer it for public auction in 2025. This potential auction will provide collectors and numismatists the chance to own a piece of American coin history. The auction could also help further public interest in commemorative coins and the artistry behind their creation.
8. Final Thoughts on the Long Island Tercentenary Coin Artifacts
The unveiling of these artifacts shines a light on a unique part of America’s numismatic history. Howard Weinman’s work on the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar, along with the plaster models and galvanos, reveals the skill and detail involved in designing commemorative coins. These artifacts offer a rare glimpse into the artistic and historical processes behind American coinage, preserving Weinman’s legacy for future generations to appreciate.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar?
A1: The 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar was a commemorative coin created to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Dutch settlers arriving in Long Island, New York. Designed by Howard K. Weinman, the coin features a Dutch settler and an Algonquin brave on the obverse and a Dutch sailing vessel on the reverse.
Q2: Who was Howard K. Weinman?
A2: Howard K. Weinman was an American sculptor and the son of Adolph A. Weinman, a famous sculptor known for designing the Winged Liberty Head dime and Walking Liberty half dollar. Howard’s work, including the design for the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar, contributed to American coinage.
Q3: What are plaster models and galvanos in the coin design process?
A3: Plaster models are large-scale prototypes made during the design process of a coin. They show how the coin will look in relief. Galvanos are one-sided bas-relief molds created from the plaster models and used to make the final coin dies. These molds can be either positive or negative and are essential in creating detailed, accurate coin designs.
Q4: What makes the discovery of these models significant?
A4: The discovery of Howard Weinman’s plaster models and galvanos after 88 years is significant because they offer a rare glimpse into the coin design process of a historical American commemorative coin. It also highlights the legacy of Howard and his father, Adolph Weinman, in shaping U.S. coinage.
Q5: Will the models and galvanos be sold?
A5: While Mike Byers, the numismatist who acquired the models and galvanos, has stated that they are not currently for sale, there are plans to potentially auction the collection in 2025. This will allow collectors and numismatists the chance to acquire these rare artifacts.