Cordelia:
When I first saw that applique of Lewis and Clark, I thought the same thing. I couldn't imagine how in the world you could applique such skinny little pieces. But it really wasn't that bad using the extra fine thread and correct needle. On the skinny pieces, you can't realy sew only the edges, just sew right down the middle.
I went searching through my purse for that nickle, but couldn't find one. Are you talking about the shaking hands applique? I found nickles with a ship and a buffalo though.
This quilt was a great learning experience with applique, paper piecing, half-square triangles, etc. I don't know if I will be quilting it too soon. I am still intimidated by that. LOL