1 Pfennig - Oberzwieselau Benedikt v. Poschinger

Historical Context: The 1917 1 Pfennig from Oberzwieselau, bearing Benedikt v. Poschinger's name, is a poignant artifact of German Notgeld issued during World War I. As the war progressed, the Imperial German government requisitioned metals, causing severe currency shortages. Municipalities like Oberzwieselau, likely a Bavarian community associated with the prominent Poschinger industrialist family, issued these localized tokens to facilitate daily commerce. This piece underscores the economic strain and decentralized monetary responses prevalent across Germany in this tumultuous period.

Artistry: As wartime emergency currency, the artistic focus of this 1 Pfennig piece prioritized functionality over elaborate aesthetics. While an engraver is typically unrecorded for such utilitarian issues, the design likely adheres to a straightforward, legible style common to Notgeld. Expect a simple layout featuring the denomination, "Oberzwieselau," "1917," and "Benedikt v. Poschinger," possibly indicating a local authority or patron. The overall aesthetic reflects the practical demands and limited resources of its production.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, a metal chosen for its wartime availability, this coin is inherently susceptible to wear and environmental damage. High-points for grading typically include the raised lettering of the denomination and issuer's name. Technical strike qualities often vary significantly among Notgeld issues; expect potential inconsistencies in strike depth, planchet quality, and minor die imperfections due to rapid production. Zinc coins are particularly prone to corrosion and pitting, critical factors in assessing their preservation and overall grade.