The Dimmick Mint Theft Analysis

In 1901, the San Francisco Mint experienced a major theft orchestrated by its chief clerk, Walter Dimmick. Despite tight security, Dimmick managed to steal 1,500 Double Eagle coins by exploiting his position and the trust of the guards. He cleverly smuggled the coins out in a suitcase over several weeks, taking advantage of the guards' familiarity with his routine. The heist, valued at $30,000 then and equivalent to $10 million today, was the largest in American history at the time. Dimmick was eventually caught and charged with theft, leading to a trial.

What year did the San Francisco Mint experience a major theft?

• 1920

• 1910

• 1901

• 1890

Who was the chief clerk found responsible for the theft at the Mint?

• Walter Dimmick

• John Doe

• James Brown

• Henry Smith

How was the theft at the Mint characterized?

• An outside job

• An inside job

• A failed attempt

• A random theft

What was Walter Dimmick's strategy to smuggle coins out of the Mint?

• Hiding them in his shoes

• Using a suitcase with evening clothes

• Bribing the guards

• Using a secret tunnel

What did the guards eventually stop doing that allowed Dimmick to continue his theft?

• Monitoring his movements

• Asking for his schedule

• Checking his suitcase

• Checking his ID

How much did the stolen 1,500 Double Eagle coins equate to in today's value?

• $1 million

• $5 million

• $10 million

• $20 million

What was the weight of the gold coins Dimmick carried in his suitcase?

• 34 lbs

• 44 lbs

• 54 lbs

• 64 lbs

What was the reaction of the outside Watchman when he saw Dimmick struggling with his suitcase?

• He offered assistance

• He alerted the other guards

• He ignored him

• He called the police

What was the historical significance of the theft carried out by Dimmick?

• It was the first theft at the Mint

• It was the smallest theft in history

• It was never solved

• It was the largest theft in American history at the time

What was the outcome for Walter Dimmick after the theft was discovered?

• He was acquitted

• He fled the country

• He was charged with theft and went to trial

• He was promoted