Skull Top Hat Coin 1878 – Gothic Collectible

This skull top hat coin features a distinctive skull wearing a classic Victorian top hat with skeletal hands beneath, surrounded by a rope border, in an 1878 carved design. The intricate relief work blends Victorian elegance with gothic memento mori symbolism, creating a unique fusion of 19th-century sophistication and dark art. A striking piece that combines Victorian fashion, skull imagery, and traditional hobo nickel artistry into one memorable collectible.

Hobo nickel carving emerged in the early 20th century as itinerant artists transformed Buffalo nickels and Morgan dollars into miniature sculptural masterpieces. This coin reimagines Victorian-era elegance through a memento mori lens. The top hat was the quintessential symbol of Victorian gentlemen, representing social status, sophistication, and respectability in the 19th century. By placing this symbol of life and status on a skull, the coin creates a powerful statement about mortality—even the most refined and wealthy cannot escape death. The skeletal hands beneath add to the memento mori message while creating visual balance. The rope border frames the composition elegantly. The 1878 date connects this piece to the first year of Morgan Dollar production, making it particularly significant for numismatic collectors. The reverse features the traditional Morgan Dollar eagle design, creating a double-sided collectible. This piece is a Gothic Victorian collectible coin designed for display and collection.

About the Design

The obverse features exceptional carving detail in the skull wearing the classic Victorian top hat, with skeletal hands positioned beneath creating symmetry. The rope border frames the composition elegantly. The "E Pluribus Unum" inscription and decorative stars maintain the Morgan Dollar aesthetic while the carved imagery transforms it into Victorian gothic art. The reverse showcases the traditional Morgan Dollar eagle with spread wings, olive branches, and "United States of America" inscription. The antique silver finish enhances the aged, Victorian quality that suits the skull and top hat theme perfectly, making this piece a tribute to 19th-century elegance and mortality.

Product Features

• Design: Double-sided coin with skull wearing Victorian top hat obverse, American eagle reverse
• Material: Copper base with antique silver-tone plating
• Diameter: 38mm (Morgan Dollar size)
• Weight: Approx. 30-40g
• Finish: Antique patina with deep relief carving effect
• Packaging: Protective transparent display capsule

Perfect For

• Hobo nickel and carved coin collectors
• Victorian era and 19th-century enthusiasts
• Gothic and memento mori collectors
• Ideal for shadow boxes, collector cabinets, Victorian displays, or gothic décor setups

Shipping

Free worldwide tracked shipping. Estimated delivery 9–14 days. Each coin is securely packaged for safe arrival.

Explore more designs in the Gothic & Dark Collection.

This item is a commemorative collectible and is not affiliated with any official government mint or legal tender authority. It is intended for display and collecting purposes only.

Because every collection deserves one more coin.