This 1 1/2″ wooden nickel is a special piece of exonumia created for advertising and promotional purposes, celebrating the Yankee Gathering II from 1988, a biennial magic collectors convention hosted by the New England Magic Collectors Association (NEMCA). The front of the nickel features “Yankee Gathering II – 1988” at the top and “Chet Karkut” at the bottom, with an image of Chet Karkut, the honored magician, in the center. The reverse side showcases a coat of arms shield, adding a touch of elegance and historical significance to the design.

Chet Karkut (1915-1996) was a dedicated semi-professional magician, collector, and respected figure in the magic community. Originally from Shelton, Connecticut, he was a founding member and the Dean of the Frederick Eugene Powell IBM Ring 59. In addition to his career as a policeman, Chet was known for his contributions to the magic world and his role in nurturing future generations of magicians. This wooden nickel commemorates his legacy, the gathering of magic collectors, and the vibrant community of magic enthusiasts who gathered at this event. A perfect collectible for fans of magic history and collectors of exonumia, this wooden nickel captures the essence of both the convention and the life of Chet Karkut.