[Bandaid]

I noticed on e-bay there are a number of carvings for sale that are called 'hobo nickels'. They appear to be a relief carving of a face on a round background. There are a variety of subjects (faces) listed for sale.
I've never heard of these carvings before and was curious about their history. My guess is that, because of the name, these carvings were originated by hobos in days gone by.
Was wondering if any of the gang could enlighten me.
They look like they might be a fun project! ...Reg

Straight from Ebay
'Description

Two “Hobo� nickels—modern hand made in the style of the old original ones. Originally made during the depression by hobos who carved Indianhead nickels and traded them for a meal. Originals are now quite scarce and expensive. These are very comparable to the original folk art'

[Bandaid]

Thx for the reply lorax. I think I'll give one a try.

I looked on ebay and found some Hobo Nickels. I was wondering are they carved on an actual coin or done on wood? Would they be the same size as a regular nickel? I had never heard of a Hobo Nickel until I read this posting.

[Bandaid]

It was a new one on me as well. The ones that peaked my interest were wood carvings advertized on e-bay. As lorax mentioned, the originals were actually buffalo nickles that hobos carved and changed the native face, that appeared on the coin, to some other character.
I think I'll stick to making one out of wood. 8)