George T. Morgan (1845 – January 4, 1925) Born in
Birmingham, England, Morgan studied in
England, and worked for many years as a die
engraver at Messrs. J.S. & A.B. Wyon. Morgan came to the
United States from England in 1876 and was hired as an assistant engraver at the Mint in October of that year under
William Barber. He figured very prominently in the production of
pattern coins from 1877 onward. Morgan designed several varieties of 1877
half dollar, the 1879 "Schoolgirl" dollar, and the 1882 "Shield Earring" coins. Eventually, Morgan took the role of seventh
Chief Engraver following the death of
Charles E. Barber in February 1917. Morgan is most famous for designing the
Morgan Dollar, one of many namesakes, as well as the never-released $100 Gold Union coin.
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