The Cincinnati Numismatic Association now has in its archives the original American Bank Note Company engraved plate for the Tyler Davidson Fountain, the association?s symbol. CNA purchased the plate from a Stack?s auction in December.
In 1872 security engravers Luigi Delnoce and James Smillie created the engraved image for American Bank Note Company. The image was known to be used only on a draft for the Fourth National Bank of Cincinnati in 1885, and a lithographic version was used on the City of Cincinnati 3 percent Urban Redevelopment Bond dated June 1, 1958.
Henry Probasco gave the fountain to Cincinnati and named it after his deceased brother-in-law. It was dedicated on Oct. 6, 1871.
The CNA had imprints of the engraving made in 2000 to celebrate its 70th anniversary and is now selling a small number of them. A set of two 5 by 7 imprints, including one numbered impression, is available for $12, postage paid.
To order, send a check or money order to CNA Prints, P.O. Box 446, Miamitown, OH 45041-0446.
