Hobo nickels are coins that have been hand-carved by artists, turning them into unique pieces of art. This craft started in the early 20th century in the United States and was popular among hobos, who were homeless workers traveling across the country. This form of folk art is still valued today for its history and creativity. Let’s explore how hobo nickels are made, their origins, and why they are considered a unique form of American art.
How Hobo Nickels Are Made
Creating a hobo nickel involves carving or engraving one side of a coin, typically the heads (obverse) side. In the early days, artists used small, basic tools like chisels to modify the coin. Modern hobo nickels, however, are often crafted using electric tools like Dremels, allowing for more detailed designs.
Originally, these altered coins were made from nickels because they were cheap and easy to work with. The Buffalo nickel, made of copper and nickel, was a favorite among artists due to its thickness and soft texture, making it ideal for carving.
The Origin of the Hobo Nickel
The term “hobo nickel” comes from the fact that hobos, or homeless wanderers, created these pieces of art as a way to pass the time and make a little extra money. During the Great Depression, many people were out of work and traveled by train, often modifying coins they had to sell or trade for goods.
The art form of modifying coins has existed for centuries, but the hobo nickel is unique in that it was done purely for artistic expression rather than practicality. The Buffalo nickel was the coin of choice because it was cheap, plentiful, and offered a large surface area to carve on, particularly with its large Native American profile.
Table of Key Information about Hobo Nickels
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Material Used | Primarily Buffalo nickels due to their softness and thickness. |
| Techniques Used | Originally carved by hand using small chisels; now also altered with power tools. |
| Popular Artists | George Washington “Bo” Hughes, Bertram “Bert” Wiegand. |
| Era of Popularity | Early 1900s, especially during the Great Depression. |
| Modern Value | Prices range from $25 to over $100, depending on the quality and artist. |
| Legality | Legal to alter old, obsolete coins like the Buffalo nickel. |
Famous Hobo Nickel Artists
James Earle Fraser originally designed the Buffalo nickel, which would later become the canvas for hobo nickel artists. Two of the most famous names in the hobo nickel movement are George Washington “Bo” Hughes and Bertram “Bert” Wiegand. Bo Hughes, in particular, is considered a pioneer of this art form. He continued carving hobo nickels well into the 1980s, long after the Great Depression ended.
Though the Buffalo nickel is no longer in circulation, the tradition of creating hobo nickels continues today, with some artists using larger coins like Eisenhower dollars or Morgan dollars to create intricate designs.
Conclusion
Hobo nickels are more than just coins—they are a unique piece of American history and art. Originally crafted by homeless artists during the Great Depression, these carved coins continue to be appreciated by collectors today. While modern technology has made it easier to create detailed designs, the charm and history of the original hobo nickels keep them valuable and cherished. From their humble beginnings to their present-day value, hobo nickels remain a fascinating example of how art can emerge from the most unlikely sources.
FAQ’s
What is a Hobo Nickel?
A hobo nickel is a coin that has been hand-carved or engraved to create a new design, usually on the heads (obverse) side of the coin.
Why are Buffalo Nickels used for Hobo Nickels?
Buffalo nickels were chosen because they were cheap, thick, and made of soft material, which made them easier to carve.
Are Hobo Nickels valuable?
Yes, depending on the artist and the quality of the carving, hobo nickels can be worth anywhere from $25 to over $100.