Felix Schlag was born in Frankfurt Germany in the year 1891. In 1920 he married Anna. After doing many differnt jobs in his youth, including serving in the German Army in WW1. In 1929, after winning many European art contests he came in America. Upon hearing about the contest that the US Government was having for the design of the Nickel he, along with appx. 390 other artists, sent in models. On Aprai 20, 1938 the good news came! He had won the grand prize of $1,000!!

On September 29, 1939 Felix Schlag made, and signed, 150 certificates each with a Proof 1938 nickel and a photo of his original design.  NOTE---Click photo to see it larger.

He had 3 children. He died in 1974 at the age of 83.

To hear Felix Schlag talk about his life, the contest, etc, click HERE!

To view a few photos of his grave please click here!

"America gots it's nickel's worth out of me....wouldn't you agree? " Felix Schlag

Photo courtesy of Heritage