ANA - A wonderful life-long love story of husband/wife sculptors/artists who designed five U.S. coins. Presenter: Bob Bair
Laura Gardin Fraser and James Earle Fraser were a power couple in the world of American art and numismatics, each leaving an indelible mark on their respective fields.
Laura Gardin Fraser (1889-1966) was a talented sculptor known for her elegant designs and meticulous attention to detail. Born into an artistic family, she honed her skills at the Art Students League of New York and went on to create numerous notable works, including the famous Alabama Centennial Half Dollar, which featured a graceful depiction of Liberty holding a magnolia branch. Laura's work often celebrated themes of patriotism, beauty, and the human spirit, earning her widespread acclaim and recognition.
James Earle Fraser (1876-1953), Laura's husband, was also a highly accomplished sculptor and artist. He is perhaps best known for his iconic design of the Buffalo nickel, featuring the profile of a Native American chief on the obverse and a majestic bison on the reverse. This design remains one of the most beloved and enduring images in American numismatics. Fraser's work was characterized by its strong sense of realism, reverence for nature, and evocative storytelling, capturing the essence of the American West and its frontier spirit.
Together, Laura and James Earle Fraser formed a formidable creative partnership, collaborating on several projects and supporting each other's artistic endeavors. Their work reflected a shared passion for beauty, craftsmanship, and the preservation of American heritage. In addition to their contributions to the world of numismatics, both Laura and James Earle Fraser left a lasting legacy through their sculptures, monuments, and public artworks, which continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
For those that don't recognize the names. The obverse of each American Women Quarters coin will feature a portrait of George Washington facing right, originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser. It was the recommended design for the 1932 quarter to mark Washington's 200th birthday, but then-Treasury Secretary Mellon ultimately selected the left-facing John Flanagan design.
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Posted 03/03/2024 2:19 pm
