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JCH22

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Morgan White

291fifth

In 1692 they were also big on hanging witches. It was a very enlightened period.

BillJones

Able Buel, who made the dies for the Fugio Cents, had the tip of his ear clipped off for raising the value of notes by erasing the design that set the value and drawing in new lines. I believe he was raising notes from something like 5 pence to 5 pounds. He was also branded with a “C” for counterfeiter on his forehead.

Sapyx

Quoting from the Wikipedia article on pillory:

On discovering that the pillory was occupied, people would excitedly gather in the marketplace to taunt, tease and laugh at the offender on display.

It's a good thing we now have the Internet to provide public entertainment... though this is kind of a 17th century version of the good old fashioned forum troll dogpile.

jesbroken

Buell's life story is a very good read and recommended to anyone interested in the beginnings of our coinage and premint work. @JCH22 Thanks for reminding us of this event.
Jim

JCH22

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Namvet69

A life well lived. Thanks for sharing. Peace Roy

KSorbo

I wonder how many people actually survived having their ear cut off while standing at the pillory? Given the absence of germ theory at the time and lack of sanitation, I’m guessing death from infection would have been a common outcome.

coinkat

The Inquisition... Let's begin... The Inquisition... Look out sin...

Oops wrong Country...