An apparatus for minimizing hysteresis in a magnetic resonance imaging device of the type utilizing a pair of oppositely charged parallel pole faces forming a magnetic field therebetween, and gradient coils spaced apart from each pole face for producing time varying magnetic fields, comprises a layer of nonferromagnetic conducting material interposed between the pole face and the gradient coil. The interposed layer carries eddy currents induced by time varying magnetic fields produced by the gradient coils, thereby minimizing AC induced eddy current hysteresis from the pole faces. The layer preferably has a thickness of at least one skin depth at the frequency associated with the time varying magnetic field. The layer is preferably contiguous with the pole face, and comprises copper or aluminum. In another embodiment, each pole face has a plurality of slits therethrough radiating inward from the circumference for eliminating the eddy currents in the pole face. The slits in one pole face are preferably symmetrical to those in the other. There are preferably twenty-four (24) slits spaced fifteen degrees (15.degree.) apart. There is also disclosed the method for accomplishing the same.