Charles Barber's oath of office

RogerB

This brief letter officially made Charles Edward Barber, "Engraver of the United States Mint at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania." The Engraver had to be nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

His informal title was "Engraver" not "Chief Engraver." Morgan and William Key were "Assistant Engravers."

The color is a little uneven due to NARA in Philadelphia having only ancient fluorescent lights in their copy stand, and my clumsy attempts to smooth color and brightness.

Smudge

I like the Esq. Adds class. Thanks for posts like this.

BUFFNIXX

Very nice artifact Roger. Thanks for letting us see it.

ricko

I enjoy these old letters, both for historical value and the penmanship of most writers.... since it is being phased out in schools, it will require translation for future generations. I especially note the very even spiral after signature. I wonder if that were a unique addition to all of his letters. Cheers, RickO

RogerB

Lots of clerks seemed to have added a spiral ("tornado" ?). It emphasized the signature and end of a letter and also prevented additions.