1 Pfennig

Historical Context: The 1700 1 Pfennig from the Free Imperial City of Buchhorn was struck during the reign of Emperor Leopold I, head of the Holy Roman Empire. As a Free City, Buchhorn enjoyed significant autonomy, including the right to mint its own coinage for local commerce. This era was characterized by regional economic activity and the constant demand for small change to facilitate daily transactions within the city and its immediate environs on Lake Constance. The coin underscores Buchhorn's independent status and its role in the monetary landscape of early 18th-century Central Europe.

Artistry: The engraver for this modest copper issue is not individually recorded, common for small-denomination coins of the period. Stylistically, the design adheres to the functional and traditional numismatic art prevalent in German states, prioritizing clear legibility over elaborate artistic flourishes. The obverse typically features the city's heraldic device, likely a stylized horn or other civic emblem, while the reverse displays the denomination and date. The simplicity reflects the coin's utilitarian purpose and the constraints of the 15mm planchet.

Technical/Grading: This 1 Pfennig, weighing 0.86 grams and measuring 15.0 mm, was struck in copper, a material prone to wear and environmental degradation. Key high-points susceptible to wear include the raised elements of the city's coat of arms and the outer edges of the lettering. Early 18th-century minting techniques, often hammer striking, frequently resulted in variable strike quality, including occasional off-center strikes or areas of weak impression. Planchet irregularities and surface corrosion are common technical considerations when grading these pieces.