The 1700s: Foundations of Modern Currency and the Dawn of the U.S. Mint

Franklin, Adams, and Jefferson are appointed to create the U.S. seal. Congress appoints a committee to assess gold and silver coin values. Jefferson proposes a decimal-based currency system.

Congress recommends the establishment of a U.S. Mint. No immediate action is taken.

States gain coin-minting authority. Jefferson and Robert Morris influence early monetary frameworks. Decimal system and silver dollar proposed as currency base.

The Treasury Board submits mint plans to Congress. Copper coinage is authorized through James Jarvis by contract.

The Treasury Department is formed. Alexander Hamilton submits his report advocating for a mint and a stable national currency system.

Coinage Act passes, creating the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia. Defines coin types and salaries for Mint officers. David Rittenhouse is appointed the first Mint Director.

The first coins are struck. Cents and half dimes are introduced. Women are hired at the Mint. Henry DeSaussure and Elias Boudinot serve as directors.

The Mint temporarily shuts down due to a yellow fever outbreak. In 1799, the Mint becomes an independent agency reporting to the President.