Catalog
| Issuer | Saxe-Altenburg, Duchy of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1916-1918 |
| Type | Emergency coin |
| Value | 1 Pfennig (0.01) |
| Currency | Mark (1914-1924) |
| Composition | Zinc |
| Weight | 1.1 g |
| Diameter | 16.2 mm |
| Thickness | 1.0 mm |
| Shape | Octagonal (8-sided) |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | 1918 |
| Reference(s) | Men18#5888.1 , Hasselmann#229.1.1 |
| Obverse description | Pearl rim, legend surrounding pearl circle with denomination centered |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | WILH. HABERMEIER 1 CRAILSHEIM |
| Reverse description | Pearl rim, legend surrounding rope circle with denomination centered |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | KLEINGELDERSATZMARKE 1 * * * |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1916-1918) - - 1 050 |
| Numisquare ID | 1669360520 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:This 1 Pfennig coin, issued by Wilh. Habermeier of Crailsheim, exemplifies the Notgeld phenomenon prevalent in Germany during World War I (1916-1918). While nominally associated with the Duchy of Saxe-Altenburg under Duke Ernst II, this piece is characteristic of emergency currency issued by private entities due to severe wartime metal shortages. Struck in zinc, these coins filled a critical void in daily commerce, reflecting the economic strain and decentralized monetary solutions adopted across the German states.
Artistry:The artistry of this 1 Pfennig adheres to the utilitarian aesthetic typical of wartime Notgeld. Lacking a named engraver, its design likely emerged from local workshops, prioritizing clarity and function. The stylistic school emphasizes legible text detailing the denomination, issuer (Wilh. Habermeier, Crailsheim), and period of issue. Specific motifs are generally minimal for such small denominations, with designs being straightforward to ensure immediate recognition within its limited circulation sphere.
Technical/Grading:From a technical standpoint, the 1 Pfennig Wilh. Habermeier coin presents typical challenges for grading. Struck in zinc, a soft and reactive metal, specimens are highly susceptible to corrosion, pitting, and surface degradation, often termed "zinc rot." Strike quality, frequently inconsistent due to hurried production, can result in weak details, particularly on the highest points of lettering or any subtle design elements. Collectors seek strong, even strikes and well-preserved surfaces, increasingly rare given the material's inherent fragility.