Metalwork: Hobo Nickels

Hobo Nickels by Barcelona-based artist Paolo Curcio ("mrthe")

Paolo Curcio specializes in creating hobo nickels or bas relief sculptures carved into existing coins.  This work transforms nickels into tiny pieces of artwork.  His subjects vary from pop culture icons to  skulls, but they are all astonishingly detailed.

"One aspect of Curcio’s process that’s really amazing is his ability to use coins made from multiple layers of metal (referred to as clad coins) which he then strategically reveals to create colored flourishes and background patterns.”

Visit Paolo Curcio’s website to view many more examples of his fascinating numismatic artwork. To purchase a piece for yourself, check out Ebay.