“Angelic Liberty”, Early Vignette Die Proof, 1850s

This allegorical die proof, likely executed by the prominent nineteenth-century American firm Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson, showcases the intricate artistry that set the standard for early U.S. banknote engraving. The scene features a standing winged figure, possibly an angel or a classical personification like Victory, wearing a laurel wreath and holding a long trumpet. Seated before her is another female figure in classical attire, gazing upward, accompanied by an American eagle with outstretched wings and a cornucopia overflowing with fruit—symbols typically associated with national prosperity and agriculture in period vignettes. Such designs were often used as stock vignettes for various financial documents, including banknotes and drafts, demonstrating the firm’s mastery of fine-line steel engraving techniques that were nearly impossible to counterfeit at the time.

Rawdon, Wright, Hatch and Edson was formed in 1847 from Rawdon, Wright and Hatch. In 1858 it merged with New England Bank Note Company and associated with six other companies to form American Bank Note Company.

Note: this is an ORIGINAL nineteenth century proof; not a reproduction or contemporary print. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.