The amazing effort to renew American coinage as documented from the book, 'Recollections of a Newspaperman,' by former Director of the United States Mint, Frank Leach, and 'Illegal Tender,' by David Tripp. 

"The even white line of his teeth peeked out as his mustaches bristled. But he was not smiling. He brought his fist down on his desk repeatedly, punctuating his sentences physically and shattering the calm of his office. Furious that his grand vision for a renaissance of American coinage was being stymied and sabotaged by a single malignant Mint employee, bitterly aware that his great goal would not be achieved the way he and Gus had envisioned it, Teddy was still determined to have his day. He would have the American public see what brilliance of design and execution could be applied even to everyday spending money. It was the very least he could do to honor Saint-Gaudens." 

- David Tripp, Illegal Tender

summary

This conversation explores the creation of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coin and the role of Frank A. Leach, the former director of the United States Mint. President Theodore Roosevelt was determined to redesign the nation's coins and enlisted the renowned artist Augustus St. Gaudens for the task. Despite initial hesitations, St. Gaudens accepted the commission and began working on the designs. The project faced obstacles, including resistance from the Mint's chief engraver, Charles Barber. However, Roosevelt's persistence and enthusiasm pushed the project forward, resulting in the creation of the highly collectible double eagle coins. The conversation explores the process of creating the Saint-Gaudens double eagle coin and the challenges faced by its designer, Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The coin was initially intended to have a high relief design, but it was deemed impractical for everyday use. The relief was lowered, and the coin was eventually produced with a flattened relief. The public had mixed opinions about the coin, with some praising its beauty and others criticizing its design. The conversation also touches on the controversy surrounding the omission of the motto 'In God We Trust' on the coin and its subsequent restoration. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance and impact of the Saint-Gaudens double eagle coin.

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