1913-1938 Traditional Style Hobo Nickel #5

Ingenious American Artistry -- From the Rails to Your Collection!

"Decide your own life, don't let another person run or rule you."

That's the first rule of the "Hobo Code," drawn up by Tourist Union #63 at the 1889 National Hobo Convention in St. Louis, Missouri. Hobos were (and still are!) workers that travel from town to town, traditionally by hopping railcars. It's all part of an independent and enterprising life that's as romantic as it is rough. It's an existence of pure freedom, one that's been told in story and song for well over a century.

When work isn't available, it's up to each hobo to sell their own handmade crafts as they journey between "jungles." Of course, as a hobo and being constantly on the go, you need to create with the tools and materials you have on hand. That's why hobo art has some of the most inventive and thoroughly American creations imaginable. So, when it was discovered that Buffalo Nickels from 1913-1938 had soft enough metal and a high enough relief to carve with anything sharp, a new art form (and quick cash source) was born!

Today, artisans still continue this tradition of hobo coin art, and we were thrilled to discover these beautiful pieces! This circulated Buffalo Nickel, dated between 1913-1938, has been legally transformed with James Earle Fraser's stoic Native American carved into a profile of a man with a derby hat and chin curtain beard. You'll receive this hand-crafted work of art in a soft vinyl flip folder, ready to display. Bring this creation to your collection -- order yours today!