Subject: Medalists

This congressional report, dated 1824-1825 and finalized in 1829, documents the claim of Moritz Furst, a renowned Jewish Hungarian engraver and medalist, for compensation from the U.S. government. Furst, who was enticed to the United States in 1807 to serve as an engraver at the Philadelphia Mint but never received the position, details his career and the years of appeals to Congress to resolve this matter. The report includes supporting letters from prominent figures, notably a letter of support from President James Monroe dated March 1, 1825, and correspondence from individuals including E.S. Lazarus (uncle of Emma Lazarus) and Aaron J. Phillips, attesting to Furst's qualifications and contributions. The document highlights Furst's significant contributions as a medalist, particularly his work on War of 1812 medals, as well as his skill as a seal cutter, engraver, and diesinker.

Silver creamer made circa 1815 by the New York silversmith Garret Forbes and decorated with an engraved grapevine band by Moritz Furst, an early 19th-century U.S. Mint engraver. The creamer's design is similar to others incorporating Furst's work found at the Yale University Art Gallery and the Winterthur Museum.