Newton became
Cambridge's representative in Parliament from 1689-90, and from 1701-02
and was also the president of the Royal Society from 1703 until his
death in 1727. He was made warden of the mint in 1696 and master
of the mint in 1699. As master of the mint Newton collected a
large income, sometimes as much as 2000lbs per annum. With this
added to his personal estate the income left him a very rich man until
his death. While working for the mint, Newton became interested in
counterfeiting. He became the terror of London counterfeiters,
sending many to the gallows. And in 1705 he was recognized for his
services at the mint and also for his scientific accomplishments and was
knighted by Queen Anne.
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"Nature and Nature's laws lay hid in night: God said, let Newton be! and all was light."
--Alexander Pope
