First Thirteen Colonies Collection Question

I don't know anything about these coins, but I think the U.S. Mint could make a mint of profit out of NCLT or maybe even issue coins of designs based on the Pine Tree Shilling etc.

The U.S. population would learn a little about pre independence coinage, and coin collectors I think would be hugely interested.

I have been researching Gorham Mint. Gorham Mint is connected to Gorham Sterling Mfg., which is by far the most collectible Sterling Silver in the US and makes only Fine Sterling products such as holloware and trophies. Including the design and creation of The Stanley Cup for the NHL, Borg-Warner Trophy for the winner of the Indianapolis 500 and many more. Gorham Mint has made other rare metals. However most of them are 1 of a Kind commissioned works of art.

The most common medals are still rare such as the First 13 Set which is what this thread is all about. I am still working on the origins on how these were originally purchased. I have a partial set myself that I have had for a few years now. I am missing the Thomas Jefferson medal for my set. The First 13 I have found was sold as a set. A few years ago in my research I found an auction sale that included The First 13 and another 20 something signers and sold as a partial set. I feel the most reasonable conclusion was the first 13 were available as a set. However you could either purchase the remaining signers individually or you could purchase a full 56 medal set.

The next most common set of medals was a set of 40 Columbian Exposition medals in 1892. Within that set contains a medal with the same obverse as the commemorative Columbian Exposition Half Dollar. Which came first would require far more research.

Some other interesting information about Gorham Mint. Former US Mint engraver and director of the mint William Barber and older brother to Charles Barber was initially hired away from Gorham Mint by Charles B. Longacre. Giving some credible ties between Charles Barber the official designer to the obverse of the Columbian Exposition Half and Gorham Mint.

Regardless the comment made by the Moderator on March 6, 2011: "Googling "Gorham Mint" seems to indicate that this set of medals/rounds were the only thing numismatic they ever made. They don't seem to still be around. I assume they were a Franklin-Mint-wannabee that never really got off the ground." is very far from the truth.

With so little information out there about Gorham Mint the little bit of false information can lead collectors in the wrong direction. Especially concerning some extremely rare and desirable medals from the oldest current and one of the most prestigious private mints and Silversmiths in the US. This topic really needs far more research, not someone shutting down an important part of US History.

Anyone who has done any antique silver service purchases, or is familiar with silverware knows that there is such strong competition for pieces from Gorham that the thought of buying for "melt value" quickly disappears.

William Barber was Charles Barber's father not his brother.

Keith thank you for chiming in with new info. I know of Gorham but did't know of their medals.

-MV