INTERVIEW WITH COIN ARTIST AND DESIGNER DANIEL CARR

You have a very unique profession, minting your own tokens and medallions. How did you get into this profession?

Daniel Carr: I've always been interested in coins, since I was 14 or so. I achieved a B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, and I liked doing art work as a hobby. Put the three together and you get minting.

You design and mint numerous different coins and fantasy pieces. Where does the inspiration for the designs come from?

DC: I think like a coin collector. Inspiration comes from what I think would be interesting as a collector. I make things that I want. So I usually end up keeping one or more of each item I make to add to my own collection.

You helped spark rumors of a new currency with your "Amero" coins. The coins ignited a lot of controversy and maybe even some concern. Before you conceived the "Amero" coin, did you ever think they would ignite so much controversy?

DC: No, the reaction was way beyond what I expected. I hadn't anticipated that a certain radio talk show host would make such a big deal about the official Amero proposals and my coins. His statements were often false and inflammatory. The resulting unintentional publicity was good for coin sales, however. My intent with the coins was to make an interesting conversation piece that would get people to think about the potential future.

Feathered Liberty Head 20 Ameros

Out of all of your designs, which would you say is your favorite?

DC: At the moment, three come to mind (in chronological order):

• 2006 Nikola Tesla Sesquicentennial medal;
• 2009 Prosperity Tree / Weed Money Hard Times Token;
• 2010 Feathered Liberty Head 20-Ameros.

But, in general, my favorite is often the next one I'm working on, whatever that might be.

2006 Nikola Tesla Sesquicentennial Medal

To read the complete article, see: Interview with Coin Artist and Designer Daniel Carr (news.coinupdate.com/interview-with-coin-artist-and-
designer-daniel-carr-0636/)

Wayne Homren, Editor

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