John Mercanti

John Mercanti is an American sculptor and coin engraver who joined the United States Mint in 1974 and served as its chief engraver from 2006 to 2010. His work includes the heraldic-eagle reverse used on the original American Silver Eagle design, as well as commemorative coins and medals.

Mercanti’s career spanned a period of major change in the production of coin designs. Alongside traditional sculpting and engraving, he helped introduce digital tools into the Mint’s artistic work. His designs circulate both as currency and as collected objects, giving his small-scale relief sculpture an audience far beyond conventional galleries.