Proof Vignette of Female - Proof - Henry Preston Dawson's "Harvest"

Proof vignette of a female. Measures 5 1/4" x 4 1/4". Henry Preston Dawson's "Harvest". Reference: "The International Engraver's Line" by Gene Hessler, Page 114.

Gene Hessler, an American numismatist and musician, is renowned for his extensive research and writing on paper money. Born in Ohio in 1928, Hessler had a long and successful career as a professional trombonist, performing with renowned big bands like Woody Herman’s and in numerous Broadway pit orchestras for shows like The Music Man and Annie. His musical pursuits led him to New York City, where a chance encounter with numismatic dealer Lester Merkin ignited his lifelong passion for collecting and studying paper currency. This second career blossomed, eventually leading him to become a curator at both the Chase Manhattan Bank Money Museum and the Mercantile Bank Money Museum.

Hessler’s contributions to the field of numismatics are substantial, particularly in the study of paper money design and engravers. He has authored several influential books, including The Comprehensive Catalog of U.S. Paper Money and The Engraver’s Line: An Encyclopedia of Paper Money and Postage Stamp Art. Through his meticulous research, Hessler has brought previously unknown designs for U.S. currency to light, thanks to his work at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and the Smithsonian Institution. A highly respected and honored member of the numismatic community, Hessler has received numerous awards, including the Farran Zerbe Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Numismatic Association.