My OBT

What if you spent every day looking for One Beautiful Thing?

Legal Tender

9 Comments

Micah Adams

Canadian artist Micah Adams takes the coins he finds – both old discarded coins and contemporary currency from around the world – and makes the most delicious tiny things with them! Using a simple jeweler’s saw, he precisely cuts out each coin’s miniature figures, busts, animals, and other decorations. Then he files the edges and combines them in new and surprising ways, making them into entirely new objects.

“No person shall, except in accordance with a license granted by the Minister, meltdown, break up or use otherwise than as currency any coin that is current and legal tender in Canada.”

-Canada’s Currency Act (oops)

Besides being thoroughly adorable, Adams’s work really brings to light the amazing artistry involved in coin design. It’s certainly something I’ve mostly taken for granted. I’m thrilled to be inspired to look at coins with a new appreciation (and a magnifying glass).

You can follow the fascinating Micah Adams on Instagram.

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On the workbench. #rooseveltdime

A post shared by MICAH ADAMS (@micahadams.ca) on

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Setting up new work on paper.

A post shared by MICAH ADAMS (@micahadams.ca) on

Author: Donna from MyOBT

I have committed to spending part of every day looking for at least one beautiful thing, and sharing what I find with you lovelies!

9 thoughts on “Legal Tender

  1. Good eye sight and very creative. Can he get into ‘trouble’?

    Liked by 1 person

  2. It would be easier I think if he used postage stamps. There really some beautiful art in the US Postage stamps. But he does do some beautiful work. — Hal

    Liked by 1 person

  3. I love this intricate and unique artistry. Found this very interesting and got a
    good chuckle from the “If pigs
    Could Fly” coin.
    Thanks for sharing!!

    Like

  4. Wonderful stuff! I used to collect coins as a wee girl – currencies from other countries and vintage coins – and, while I gave up collecting a long time ago now, I still have my collection and still have a fondness for coins. I have always been fascinated by the engravings. When we emigrated, my oldest son collected quarters from all 50 states and territories. I love the way he is combining elements from the coins and also playing with the positive images and the negative spaces. The flying pig is my absolute favourite.

    Liked by 1 person

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