Medals and coins honoring Sir Isaac Newton, 1667-1951, bulk 1730-1800

Collection context

Summary

Abstract:
The Medals and coins honoring Sir Isaac Newton collection contains various medallions, medals and coins, some in plaster replica which chiefly depict Isaac Newton.
Extent:
39 items in 3 boxes.
Language:
English.

Background

Scope and content:

Collection of medals and coins commemorating Sir Isaac Newton's achievements at the Royal Mint and scientific endeavors. The collection contains various medals, medallions and coins (some in plaster replica) depicting posthumous tributes to Newton issued by the Royal Mint, Wedgwood and other private sources, chiefly between 1730 and 1800. It also includes a plaster replica of a medal honoring William Stukeley (1687-1765), Newton's first biographer, and coinage representing Newton's tenure at the Mint.

Biographical / historical:

Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) was an English astronomer, mathemetician, theologian and natural philosopher. Newton was appointed Warden of the Royal Mint in 1696, and later became Master of the Mint in 1699, a post which he held until his death in 1727. During his tenure, he oversaw the Great Recoinage of the nation's silver currency.

Acquisition information:
On long term-loan from Babson College's Grace K. Babson Collection of the Works of Sir Isaac Newton, November 2006
Arrangement:

The collection is arranged in three boxes primarily by size. Box 3 contains smaller portrait medals and coins. The original housing for the coins and smaller medals, including any notes and numbering from the Babson collection, have been preserved in mylar enclosures alongside the items.

Physical / technical requirements:

Rules or conventions:
Finding aid prepared using Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Note:

Finding aid last updated on April 5, 2018.

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, please contact Reader Services.

Access to the material is restricted. Available with curator approval. Extended retrieval and delivery time required

Location of this collection:
1151 Oxford Road
San Marino, CA 91108, US
Contact:
(626) 405-2191