Felix Schlag, a German-American sculptor, won a nationwide competition in 1938 to redesign the U.S. five-cent coin. His portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front and the image of Jefferson’s Monticello on the reverse became iconic, making Schlag’s design one of the most-circulated coins in American history.
Born in Germany in 1891, Schlag emigrated to the United States in the 1920s to pursue a career as a sculptor. His big break came with the U.S. Mint’s competition, but despite his success, he received little recognition during his lifetime beyond the initial $1,000 prize. Schlag altered his original reverse design (i.e., the “tails” side) at the request of the Mint, and his version remains on the nickel today. His depiction of Jefferson remained unchanged until 2004, cementing his place in numismatic history.
Today, Schlag’s modest grave in Owosso, where he is interred next to his wife, Ethel, is a quiet tribute to the man behind the Jefferson nickel. While few know his name, his artistic contribution continues to touch millions through the daily use of his timeless coin design.
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