1/2 Mark - Cammin

Historical Context: The 1918 1/2 Mark from Cammin emerges from the tumultuous final year of the German Empire and World War I. As central currency supply faltered amidst severe material shortages and hyperinflation, municipalities like Cammin (now Kamień Pomorski, Poland) issued emergency coinage, or Notgeld. Struck in zinc, this coin starkly testifies to the era's economic turmoil, reflecting a desperate shift to base metals and decentralized monetary authority during national crisis.

Artistry: Typical of Notgeld, the Cammin 1/2 Mark prioritizes clarity and civic identity. A specific engraver is rarely attributed to such utilitarian wartime issues; the stylistic approach is distinctly functionalist. The obverse features "STADT CAMMIN," the denomination "1/2 MARK," and the date "1918." The reverse characteristically displays a simplified city coat of arms or a simple numeral. Its aesthetic reflects pragmatic necessity, addressing an immediate need for circulating currency.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, this 1/2 Mark presents unique preservation challenges. Zinc is highly reactive, making these coins exceptionally susceptible to pitting, "zinc rot," and dull, powdery grey oxidation. High points, such as the city's crest or lettering edges, are often the first to show wear or corrosion. A rare, well-preserved example exhibits sharp, defined details with minimal surface imperfections. Collectors prioritize pieces with stable patina and absence of active corrosion, indicating superior strike and careful storage.