ADAM CRUM REMEMBERS RON LANDIS

It is with heavy hearts that we mark the passing of Ron Landis, a master engraver, die sinker, and co-founder of the Gallery Mint Museum. A rare combination of artist, historian, and educator, Ron leaves behind a legacy that is as enduring as the coins and medals he so lovingly created.

Ron was more than an engraver—he was a revivalist of lost techniques and a storyteller in metal. At the Gallery Mint Museum in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, he resurrected 18th- and 19th-century minting traditions, using hand-cut dies and antique screw presses to produce historically faithful recreations of iconic American coinage such as the 1849 $20 Liberty, 1804 Silver Dollar, and 1787 Brasher Doubloon.

Ron's talent reached the national stage when he was selected as a finalist in the design competition for the U.S. Golden Dollar in the 1990s. His graceful Liberty portrait reflected the classical beauty and technical precision that defined all his work.

I had the privilege of collaborating with Ron on several tribute issues crafted from California Gold Rush gold recovered from the legendary SS Central America. These included the 49'er Horseman, the 1852 Humbert $50 Octagonal, and the crowning piece of his career—his breathtaking rendering of the 1849 $20 Liberty, completed shortly before his passing. Each of these works stands as a tribute to Ron's devotion to both historical fidelity and artistic excellence.

More than his achievements, Ron will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and mentorship. He inspired a generation of engravers and collectors through his humility, passion, and relentless pursuit of perfection.

Ron Landis was truly a once-in-a-generation talent. His hands shaped metal, but his heart shaped a community. His artistry will echo through time. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
RONALD WAYNE LANDIS (1954-2025) (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n25a05.html)
MORE ON RON LANDIS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n26a08.html)
1849 $20 CENTRAL AMERICA COMMEMORATIVE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n27a26.html)

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