ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the ways in which Boulton's employees helped to set up the Soho Mint and how they were used, recruited and retained. The work is based on research in the Mint record books and correspondence held in the Archives of Soho. Previous work by Eric Roll and Jeremy Knowles includes studies of Boulton and Watt's steam-engine business, where innovative managerial techniques were developed. Roll also discusses the division of labour at the Soho Manufactory. The Soho Mint did not introduce many changes in labour practises that were different to those at the Soho Manufactory, but the introduction of the steam-powered press meant a greater need for more skilled labour, including engineers, engravers and technicians. The Soho Mint was under the sole control of Matthew Boulton and was not as regular in its work as other divisions at Soho, due to the difficulties of obtaining orders that could utilise the steam-powered press.
