The operations at the mint were suspended at different times because of yellow fever epidemics, and this, in connection with the scarcity of metal, and a fire at the mint and the use of coins for purely commercial purposes by coppersmiths, silversmiths and other tradesmen, accounts for the scarcity of certain coins made at “Ye Olde Mint,” under great disadvantages, when men and horses did the work now done by electricity.
Copy of Letter Regarding Purchase of First U. S. Mint Lots.
June 9, 1792.
Dear Sir:
I am in sentiment with you and the Director of the Mint, respecting the purchase of the lots and houses which are offered for sale, in preference to renting—as the latter will certainly exceed the interest of the former.
That all the applications may be brought to view, and considered for coining, &c., Mr. Lear will lay the letters and engravings before you, to be shewn to the Director of the Mint. I have no other object or wish in doing it, than to obtain the best.
Yours, &c.,
Go. WASHINGTON.
Mr. Jefferson.