Peter Stuyvesant, Vignette Die Proof on india on card, Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson 1850s

This Peter Stuyvesant vignette die proof is a masterful example of mid-19th-century American security engraving, produced by the prestigious firm Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson. The image features a detailed portrait of Stuyvesant, the final Dutch director-general of New Netherland, characterized by his stern expression and traditional 17th-century attire including a wide, white collar and flowing dark hair. As a die proof printed on India paper and mounted on a larger card, this item represents a high-quality test print intended to demonstrate the intricate detail and artistry of the engraving before it was used for bank notes or security documents. Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson were renowned for setting the standard in U.S. engraving during this “golden age,” notably becoming the first firm to receive a government contract for designing and printing U.S. postage stamps in 1847.

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.