10 Pfennig - Altena Stahldrahtwerk Rahmer

Historical Context: This 10 Pfennig coin was issued by the Stahldrahtwerk Rahmer in Altena, Germany, as part of the widespread notgeld phenomenon. Arising during and after World War I, notgeld served as emergency currency due to severe shortages of official coinage and hyperinflation. Private industrial enterprises like Rahmer issued these tokens to ensure wage payments and facilitate local commerce, highlighting the decentralized economic measures taken to sustain communities amidst national financial instability.

Artistry: The engraver for this specific notgeld issue is typically unrecorded, common for private emergency coinage. Stylistically, such pieces often embody a utilitarian or folk-art approach, prioritizing clear identification of the issuer and denomination. Designs commonly feature the company name, denomination, and sometimes simple industrial motifs relevant to the issuing entity, rendered with practical clarity rather than intricate detail.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, a common notgeld metal due to its availability and low cost, this 10 Pfennig piece weighs 1.7 grams and measures 20.3 millimeters. Zinc is prone to corrosion and wear; high-points on the design, like the company name or raised imagery, are often first to degrade. Technical strike quality varies; many notgeld issues exhibit weak strikes, and planchet imperfections are common. Collectors should seek minimal corrosion and strong, even strikes for optimal condition.