“Hobo nickels” is the term given to coins that have been altered with decorative carving. Though there is a long tradition of such carving going as far back as the 1700s, hobo nickels really came to prominence after the US Mint issued a new 5¢ coin in 1913. This coin featured an Native American head on one side and a buffalo on the other. This coin became known as the “Buffalo nickel” or “Indian head.” Due its size and the softness of its metal, the Buffalo nickel became a popular medium for trying out engraving skills by carving faces onto the coin.

During the First World troops were known for turning these coins into mementoes for sweethearts, family members and loved ones while awaiting departure for France at docks in Hoboken, NJ. Many of the hobo nickels produced around this time feature caricatures of Kaiser Wilhelm and German soldiers.

By the 1930s, it was mainly hobos who carved elaborate portraits or designs onto coins which they would then exchange for a hot meal or some essential goods.

British artist Shaun Hughes continues this tradition of hobo nickels by engraving beautiful, elaborate designs onto nickels, quarters and British pennies and shillings. His coins are pocket artworks which sell on eBay for around $5-$200 apiece—which is a nice way to increase the value of your cash.

Shaun doesn’t do commissions but you can see more of his work and his working processes here.
 

 

 
More valuable coin art, after the jump…