1 Pfennig - Stettin Rudolph Karstadt

Historical Context: The 1 Pfennig Stettin Rudolph Karstadt notgeld originates from Germany's severe post-WWI economic crisis and hyperinflation (early 1920s). Issued by the City of Stettin (now Szczecin, Poland), this emergency currency addressed critical small change shortages. The "Rudolph Karstadt" designates municipal issuance distributed by the prominent department store, or direct business notgeld under civic authority. Its iron composition reflects acute metal scarcity and the urgent, localized nature of Notgeld production.

Artistry: The artistry of this Stettin Karstadt 1 Pfennig notgeld exemplifies the utilitarian aesthetic common to German emergency coinage (early 1920s). Specific engraver details are rarely documented. Designs prioritize clarity and legibility, typically featuring bold, sans-serif lettering for denomination, issuer, and business name, often encircling a central numeral or simplified civic emblem. This functional approach reflects its urgent, pragmatic production, not a sophisticated artistic movement. Engraver signatures are virtually absent on these iron notgeld issues.