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Archives International Auctions - Sale AIAXXXII
79
April 11, 2016
Archives International Auctions
www.archivesinternational.comTennessee
Unique Early circa 1820’s Tennessee Obsolete Scrip Note Copper Printing Plate
Engraved by William Kneass
479
479 Nashville Bank atWinchester 1820’s Copper Printing Plate Engraved ByWilliam Kneass, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint.Nashville (at Winchester),
Tennessee, 182x (1820-24), Copper printing plate with 5 different banknotes. Includes 25cts-50cts-$1-$2-$3, (TN-180-Unlisted). No 25cents; 50 cents or $3
denomination notes are known on this bank, Unlisted design, printer, and denominations only add to the desirability of this amazing and unique printing plate
from the 1820’s, the back is blank, the plate is in amazing shape with original golden-red patina with evidence of a cleaning sometime in the distant past. The
25 cents and 50 cents notes have a denomination counter in the top middle and end panels with Tennessee and the denomination; the $1, $2 and $3 notes have a
place for the serial number at the top middle and an underprint of the numeral denomination for that note and also similar end panels as the lower denomination,
all are payable at Winchester. 8.5 by 12.5 inches, Unique copper printing plate from a new estate find and the first time ever offered in public auction. This is one
of 2 banknote plates and 3 advertising plates we are offering. William Kneass ran an engraving office on Fourth above Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, which was
a popular meeting place for “leading wits and men of culture” up until he was appointed the second Chief Engraver of the United States Mint on January 29,
1824 until his death in 1840. In 1834, Kneass designed the Classic Head motif which appeared on Quarter Eagle ($2.50) and Half Eagle ($5.00) gold pieces from
1834-1839. He also modified John Reich’s Capped Bust design on the dime through half-dollar for the years 1829-1837. Additionally, Kneass utilized his modified
Capped Bust for the rebirth of the half-dime in 1829. He also introduced a new Liberty head on the half dollar, a design that was modified several times over the
next two years, The printer is W. Kneass, Philadelphia. Historic obsolete banknote plate engraved by legendary U.S. Mint engraver. �������������������������Est.
$5000-10000