Newman Portal Search: Gutzon Borglum

This week a Newman Portal user searched for “Gutzon Borglum.” This is one of those search terms that sounds like an answer to a World Series of Numismatics question – the only problem is figuring out what the question is supposed to be. To the rescue comes the Newman Portal, and the most helpful source immediately identified is the ANS 1911 catalog of the International Exhibition of Contemporary Medals. Borglum is identified as an American medalist and sculptor, and several of his works are illustrated. The March 1952 issue of Kelly’s Coins and Chatter further notes Borglum as the designer of the 1925 Stone Mountain commemorative half dollar. Borglum today is of course most recognized for his role as the creator of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. While this achievement is justly celebrated, the Newman Portal remains an important resource to fill in the numismatic parts of the story. Link to the ANS 1911 Catalogue of the International Exhibition of Contemporary Medals: https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/520812?page=54Link to Kelly’s Coins and Chatter on Newman Portal: https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/516064?page=2