Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a rare early-20th-century restrike from the original 1794 copperplate etched by the young Salem artist Joseph Hiller, Jr. It depicts George Washington in profile, wearing his military uniform, framed in an elegant oval border with a banner below. The print is housed in a handsome period frame with a detailed historical label on the reverse explaining its fascinating lineage.
Story
In 1794, a teenage artist named Joseph Hiller, Jr. etched this profile of George Washington in Salem, Massachusetts. Tragically, Hiller died at sea just a few years later at age 18, leaving behind only two known copperplate works. Over a century later in 1907, his original copperplate was rediscovered and used to print this limited second-issue run.
Maker / Origin
Joseph Hiller, Jr. (1777–1795) was a promising young American engraver from Salem, Massachusetts, whose life was cut short when he drowned at sea at just eighteen years old. He was the son of Major Joseph Hiller, a Revolutionary War officer and Salem's first customs collector.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in good condition with some minor foxing and spotting visible in the margins, which is typical for paper of this age. The frame shows some light wear consistent with age, and the backing labels are taped but legible. Keeping the print in an acid-free mount will prevent further discoloration.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.