Requests permission to close Mint for three months to repair and replace machinery that has deteriorated under heavy workload of past two years. Plans to begin at end of this month. Please inform JH of any pending orders for coinage.

Reports total coinage from 1814 to 1853 and silver coinage from 1801 to 1815. Gives reasons why gold coins in circulation 'fall far short' of those minted. History of copper coinage since 1790.

Received [CT]'s letter of 9 Jan. 1854 conveying request of the Duke of Newcastle [H. P. F. P. Clinton] for artist to execute Crimean Medal, and Treasury commissioners' directive for JH to include cost of dies for medal in 1855 Mint expenses. JH feels obligated to employ Mint's own Medaller and Engraver, but will accept dies from another artist if Queen Victoria so desires.

Now that pressure for gold and silver coinage has abated, JH wants to eliminate some temporary clerks assigned to Mint. Mr. Watt and H. A. Severn were assigned to Sydney branch mint. [John] Goldsmith was appointed supernumerary clerk in Mint office. JH informed Mr. Welsh that Welsh's services will end soon.

Requests permission from Treasury to draw from Master's account at Bank [of England] to cover expenses that cannot be paid from depleted Exchequer account before 31 Mar., when Parliamentary grant for next fiscal year becomes available.