Introducing Squiggly

By Art DelFavero RM552

Most of the time, it's easy to see if carvings match. That is to say, can they be attributed to the same artist without much question? In the case of “Squiggly” it's a little harder. One has to look closer, and also understand certain carving and engraving techniques and tools used. Also one might have to send photos to other collectors and collector/carvers, to check and verify his assessments. Both master carver Keith Pedersen, and OHNS past president, Author, and long time hobo nickel collector Steve Alpert did just that upon examining the three examples.

The first example was one that I won in an eBay auction on August 29, 2006 for the sum of $181. The second example belongs to our editor Ralph Winter. It was purchased out of Kentucky on eBay for the sum of $150. Our third example was purchased on November 24, 2006 at the MSNS Thanksgiving weekend coin show for the price of $70. The average price for these carvings is $133.66, and my personal quality assessment is above average to above average high.

The carving characteristics for “Squiggly” are listed as follows:

1. A squiggly line used to form the shape of a lapel.
2. Same shape sculpted shoulder.
3. Liberty and date removed.
4. Matching collars on two and a similar one on the third.
5. Wriggle cutting and liner tool use to form hair, beard and eyebrows.
6. Similar formed derby hat with band, bow, and/or ornament.
7. Liner tool used on all hats and shoulder.
8. Similar shaped ears with the same detail components.
9. Moderate amendments to the profile.