2016-06-28 Tue

The vignette on the reverse termed “Science Presenting Steam and Electricity to Industry and Commerce” of the Series 1896 $2 silver certificate was designed by renowned Muralist Edwin H. Blashfield. He had made several other designs like these. One such sketch as Study of a Head for a Mural Panel was auctioned at The Heritage Auction’s Fine Art Sale from 24th to 27th June. His art undoubtedly went beyond paper money but this sketch is as intricate as any of the paper money designs created by him.

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing had appointed the popular 19th century artist along with three others named Will H. Low, C.S. Reinhart and Walter Shirlaw to improve the artwork on U.S. currency.

Blashfield also played a major role for the redesign of coinage in 1916 and was the one who pushed for Hermon A. MacNeil’s Standing Liberty quarter dollar design.