1 Pfennig - John Frederick

Historical Context: This 1 Pfennig coin was issued by the Principality of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt during the reign of Prince John Frederick (Johann Friedrich), who governed from 1737 to 1767. Struck between 1751 and 1752, it belongs to an era of numerous independent German states within the Holy Roman Empire, each asserting their sovereignty through the right of coinage. As a small denomination, the Pfennig was crucial for everyday transactions, reflecting the economic necessities of the principality and its populace in the mid-18th century.

Artistry: The engraver of this specific 1 Pfennig is unrecorded, a common circumstance for minor denominations from smaller German mints of this period. Stylistically, the coin embodies the utilitarian aesthetic typical for copper issues, yet subtly influenced by the prevailing late Baroque and early Rococo artistic trends of the era. The design likely features a simplified rendition of the princely monogram or arms on one side, alongside the denomination and date, executed with robust lines suitable for the soft copper medium and the rigors of circulation.

Technical/Grading: Composed of copper, this coin weighs 2.22 grams and measures 20.5 millimeters, making it a relatively small and light piece. The inherent softness of copper means that high points, such as the central elements of any crest, the edges of lettering, or any decorative flourishes, are particularly susceptible to wear. Collectors should anticipate variable strike quality, ranging from sharp details to areas of weakness, and potential planchet imperfections or environmental damage, which are common for copper coinage of this age and type.