The Indian on the Nickel

 The Indian on the Nickel - The History Of The USA 

BY JOHN JAY 

Not many people know that the new five-cent piece bears the portrait of real live Indian. It is the Sioux Chief, Iron Tail. In foreign countries the faces of kings or are often placed on the money of the land. In the United States we have picture of Lincoln on our new pennies, and McKinley and a number other statesmen on our paper money, but Iron Tail is the only living man who is shown in this way. Of course, the designer used his picture because his face is typical of all Indians. But the chief is very proud of his distinction. When any one asks him for his picture, he promptly gives them one of the new nickels. On the oppo site side of these coins is an excellent representation of the buffalo, which was so closely associated with the old life of the Indians of the plains.  

Themes: Reading Lesson, Silent Reading, Civic Education, Patriotism.

References:

1.Everyland 1913