Thomas Simon

Thomas Simon was apprenticed to London goldsmith Edward Greene, who was chief engraver at the Mint. He received a position at the Mint in about 1635 and in 1644 was made joint chief engraver with Edward Wade. Simon became a freeman of the Goldsmiths' Company in 1646. From that time, he produced portrait medals of many of the leading figures of the day. Having executed the great seal of the Commonwealth and dies for the coinage, he was promoted to chief engraver to the Mint and Seals. He produced several fine portrait medals of Oliver Cromwell, one of which is copied from a miniature by Cooper. After the Restoration, Simon was appointed engraver of the King 's Seals.

Text © National Portrait Gallery, London