JOSEPH WRIGHT OF BORDENTOWN, NEW JERSEY

Joseph Wright was considered the first chief engraver of the U.S. Mint by many, although he died before he was officially confirmed. Wright was born in Bordentown, New Jersey, which was located next to the small town of Groveville, where I grew up and started collecting as a youngster. A recent search for any Wright-associated landmarks in Bordentown turned up Wright's childhood home, which still stands. Surprisingly, Wright was not given top billing. This went to his mother, Patience, who was an accomplished sculptor as well as a "female spy". On a metal sign outside of the house, Joseph is noted only as a "noted painter." A small bronze plaque attached to the home, however, duly notes Wright as the "Designer of Original U.S. Coins."

   

 

Bordentown was a small but popular town during the American Revolution, located between Philadelphia and New York City and featured other notable residents with numismatic connections as well. This includes author Thomas Paine, who later became the subject of satirical medals for his involvement in the French revolution. Exiled King Joseph Bonaparte also resided in Bordentown. Bonaparte was the brother of Napoleon, and as king of Spain and Naples, was depicted on Spanish coinage.

 

Mike adds:

	NBS (coinbooks.org) Web