I don’t collect these but I found 3 of them in a box that I bought in 2011. I only have them because I thought they were nice ones. Not really sure how old they are but they are at least 12 years old. The maker uses something to get the color on it. Hope you like it too. This one I like the coonskin cap.
For my hobo nickels I use gamblin engravers ink, jax, gun blue- and if its a special engraving I use compound #925. I don't think any of these were used. The next time I talk to him I will ask him.
People use a lot.of things to darken coins. One carver uses nic-a-date to prep the surface. A sulfer solution is also used. I used to use a sharpie. I was never really happy with the results.
Thanks for that. I cannot currently locate my old bottle. Seems I've squirreled it away somewhere. But Ferric-Chloride does ring a bell now that you mention it.
I watched the Hobo Nickel auction by Heritage & bid on 6 coins winning only one modern nickel. There was spirited bidding at the auction & prices were generally high, but there were some bargains to be had . I won the coin pictured below for $67.00, including the buyers premium . Modern Hobo Nickel, Carving by Shane Jameson (son of expert carver Bill Jameson). 1937 host coin. Signed on edge "SJ 30". I don't collect Hobo Nickels but always wanted a modern one to go with an "old classic" one that I bought many years ago pictured below . I did a featured article for Coin Talk on Hobo Nickels on Sept. 2, 2019, & if anyone is interested it can be found on the Coin Talk Archives .
You bought an amazing coin! I have seen your vintage coin somewhere- I have a photo of it saved. For Modern hobo nickels David He does really excellent work. I bought one of his recently.