1 Pfennig - Mühlhausen in Thüringen

Historical Context: This 1 Pfennig coin, issued by the City of Mühlhausen in Thuringia in 1920, dates to the tumultuous early Weimar Republic. Post-World War I, Germany faced severe economic instability, including rampant inflation and a critical shortage of small change (Kleingeldmangel). Municipalities like Mühlhausen issued their own emergency currency, Notgeld, to facilitate local commerce. This coin represents a tangible response to the economic crisis, highlighting decentralized monetary authority.

Artistry: The design of this 1 Pfennig coin is characteristic of utilitarian Notgeld issues. While the specific engraver is unrecorded, the stylistic approach prioritizes clarity and functionality. The obverse typically features the denomination and issuing authority, "STADT MÜHLHAUSEN I. THÜRINGEN," alongside the date. The reverse commonly displays a simple civic emblem or reiterates the denomination. The design is robust, suited for rapid production and the soft zinc medium, ensuring legibility despite wear.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, a metal chosen for its availability and low cost during the post-war crisis, this 1 Pfennig weighs 1.44 grams and measures 16.2 millimeters. Key high-points susceptible to wear include the raised numerals, issuer's lettering, and any central emblem. Due to zinc's softness and often rushed production, strikes vary, frequently exhibiting weakness in finer details or unevenness. Zinc is also highly prone to corrosion and "zinc rot," significantly impacting preservation and grading, often manifesting as pitting or crystalline surface degradation.