LHN Hobo Souvenir Ring
Hobo nickels date back to the 18th century when carvings were made on coins to alter the profile of the presidents face. Due to its low cost of just needing a nickel and an engraving tool, this art form was particularly popular amongst hobos. This engraving was inspired by an original Hobo Nickel from that period, with the date of the coin issue - 1936, clearly visible as well as “LIBERTY”, which appears on the original coin. The presidents face is carved into a skull and he wears a beaten up old fedora hat. The side details feature a shield with three crossed arrows.
Materials
The face and side accents are made from brass and the ring itself is made from solid silver. This is a large ring with a nice weight to it. The face is aprox 1 inch x 3/4 inch.
Origins of the Ring
This type of ring is known as a Mexican Biker Ring or Souvenir Ring. After the Mexican Civil War the currency plummeted and the Peso was almost valueless. Jewelers melted the coins down and made them into these large rings. Tourist from America would visit and buy the rings as Souvenirs. Also, biker gangs would come down to the border and buy these rings and use them instead of the then illegal Knuckle Dusters. The Mexican Biker Ring or Souvenir Ring became a popular and legendary style with outsiders.
Hand crafted in New York City