My Thanksgiving newp, or how to make Aspie_Rocco jealous

KindaNewish · November 23, 2018 2:09PM

I have wanted one of these for more than 30 years, since I first read about it in a COINage magazine in the early 1970's.

132 of 150

Thank you @segoja!

Cameonut · November 23, 2018 3:14PM

Very nice! I tried on and off over the last 10 years to pick up a nice one. The pieces I saw left a lot to be desired.

I used to live in mid-Michigan and visited his grave in Owosso in 2008 or so. His grave commemorates his work on the nickel.

KindaNewish · November 23, 2018 3:39PM

In August 1973, COINage Magazine published an article by Lee Martin entitled, "The Rarest Nickel of Them All." In this piece, Felix Schlag described the origin of the "Certificate with the 1938 Proof Nickel." Following are Schlag's words:

Dear Lee:

In your last letter you were curious as to the organization of the Certificate with the 1938 Proof Nickel. May I just reminisce now and set the mood for the background. My thoughts lately have retraced my past efforts; the factors and decisions which shaped and influenced my life.

The movements and changes in environmental conditions and technology (either man-made or through the elements) have forced tensions upon humans resulting in many falling by the wayside, and others seeking new horizons, discoveries or adventures.

I was caught up in the economic disaster 1929-30 in New York and felt an irresistible desire to change locations, looking for a better climate to find sculptural work. Rumors were, one could find a normal existence in Chicago. So I went by bus to a strange city, arriving after midnight on the South side, not knowing a soul. Lean, difficult years followed. I learned there is no situation worse than not knowing where the next meal is coming from or how to obtain money for the room rent.

But the health of youth can survive much abuse, even periods of starvation. Life was hostile and a struggle for self-preservation. I had practically nothing. Sometimes I felt as though the ground had given way under my feet. But I also met and befriended gentle people; Italians (in the plaster field), Jewish friends, inviting me to their homes, giving me moral support, French, Polish, Germans, politicians of every faction.

Artists lived in different sections of Chicago - in cluster groups. I can speak only about those around the North Avenue, Wells Street in the 1930's. They were a close-knit group, sharing knowledge and ideas bolstering each others' courage unselfishly. Compare that with a shallow sophistication too often found on a higher social elevation.

In the unique hours of silent nights, when most are asleep, there is a certain mystic. It is a time that provides a kind of peace, a retreat from the agitation of life. Imagination holds full sway and gradually takes shape in the form of a vision of intuition which offers the artist a way to express his inner self. In this aura, the work of the Jefferson Nickel had its start. Bone weary, after a hard day, I worked nights only on this project, but curiously was always reluctant to quit.

After winning the contest – our small group suggested that I should create a plaque to commemorate these years of deep, sincere friendship. I designed every letter by hand in the lay-out and had 150 printed. Some were given freely away at once. Number 1, I dedicated to the Chicago Historical Society who had favored me with help in my Americana research; Number 3 to the American Numismatic Association.

I placed an ad in a numismatic magazine, but did not receive one reply; no promotion was involved. So after moving to Michigan, I put them in my attic. Many years later, when my wife became ill, I cleaned out many belongings and included the Certificates with a small coin collection which I sold. You might say I gave the Certificates away for nothing.

The dealer put on an advertising campaign, and to my amazement I heard from a Physician later who told me of paying $300 for one. I kept a few of the Certificates for myself and my wife.

Thank you for your patience in lending an ear to this story of MY DEPRESSION. People have come a long way since then; unbelievable changes in attitudes and habits.

Personal regards to you and your family.

Sincerely yours, Felix

More info if you are interested at http://www.felixschlag.com/gallery