Hobo skull nickel from 1938.
The art of carving nickels dates back to the 18th century. It was popularized during the Depression era, as it gave unemployed artists something to do. This art form survives today, and even has it's own society: the OHNS (Original Hobo Nickel Society). You'll mainly see folk art depicted on these nickels, however I came across some that are decidedly macabre... and of course had to share. Check out the first link to see more examples.
[Link to Hobo Skull Nickels]
