Lincoln cent dies being made in 1974

denga

The illustration shows dies being prepared. The dies in the box, however, have yet to be
hardened and machined for use. This 1974 photograph was taken by permission of Chief
Engraver Frank Gasparro.

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CaptHenway

The press operator's name wasn't "Eckfeldt" by any chance?????????

RWB

The bellows-like things are part of the pressurized air system that powered the mint’s pipe organ. This played happy background music during the workday to help employees better enjoy their labors.

The single squeeze die system eliminated the pipe organ. Now, employees just whistle while they work.

PipestonePete

Do you suppose that die box has entered it's second century of service yet?

Cameonut

RWB - you know some people might actually believe you!

Those bellows were actually used to keep dirt and grime off the posts of the press. This insured smooth operation and less opportunity for the press head to bind up. So underneath the bellows are nice clean steel cylinders.

CaptHenway

<< <i>The bellows-like things are part of the pressurized air system that powered the mint’s pipe organ. This played happy background music during the workday to help employees better enjoy their labors.

The single squeeze die system eliminated the pipe organ. Now, employees just whistle while they work. >>



What a pipe dream.........

thesearcher

Cool photo! Thanks for sharing.

ProofArtworkonCircs

1974 cent dies were probably the last use of W-1 die steel by the mint.

EDIT: I have recently learned that some 1975 cent dies were also W-1 steel.