Commems Collection Classic: Quick Bits #68 - Sculptor Members Of The Commission Of Fine Arts

The Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), created by Act of Congress in May 1910, has always been comprised of individuals with varied backgrounds in the Arts. Architects and engineers have generally figured prominently in its membership, owing to the CFA's role as an advisor to the Federal Government regarding monuments, fountains, statues, etc., but it has also always counted painters and sculptors among its ranks.

The Sculptor members of the CFA take the lead in reviewing the coin and medal designs presented to it. The Treasury Department and US Mint looked to the CFA for its comments and approvals on the classic commemorative coin designs before giving their final approval. The two sides most definitely had their disagreements over the years, but, in general, worked effectively together.

Following is a roster of the CFA Sculptor members from 1910 through 1963 (covering the full classic era of the US commemorative coin program). If you are in any way a fan of medals, you will likely recognize most of the names on the list - they were noted medallic artists of their time.

Note: The first US commemorative coin to engage the CFA was the 1920 Maine Statehood Centennial half dollar.

Daniel Chester French
CFA Service: 1910-1915; Chairman 1912-1915

Herbert Adams
CFA Service: 1915-1920; Vice Chairman 1918-1920

James Earle Fraser
CFA Service: 1920-1925

Lorado Taft
CFA Service: 1925-1929

Adolph Weinman
CFA Service: 1929-1933

Lee Lawrie
CFA Service: 1933-1937, 1945-1950

Paul Manship
CFA Service: 1937-1941

Ralph Stackpole
CFA Service: 1941-1945

Felix W. de Weldon
CFA Service: 1950-1963


I posted a previous discussion of the CFA here:

- Quick Bits #60 - A Call For Circulating Commemorative Coins


For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals,, see: Commems Collection.