Johan Sigismund von Møsting


Johan Sigismund von Mösting was a Danish banker and finance minister. He was a key figure in the foundation of Bank of Denmark in 1818. His name is today also associated with Møstings Hus, his former summer residence in Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, which is now used as an exhibition space.

Early life and education

Johan Sigismund von Mösting was born at Nygård on the island of Møn. His father was Frederik Christian von Møsting who was governor of the island. Johan Sigismund von Mösting studied jurisprudence at University of Copenhagen, graduating in 1782.

Career

1813 became director of the Danish Reichsbank. He subsequently served as Denmark's minister of finance until 1831, president of the Chamber of Finance and Prime Minister of the Danish Kings. In 1838 he served as Director of the King's library.
Cape Møsting in Greenland was named after him in 1829 by Lieutenant Wilhelm August Graah.

Astronomy

He helped promote interest in astronomy and was a significant figure in the founding of the scientific journal Astronomische Nachrichten. The Mösting crater on the Moon is named after him.