10 Pfennig - Coburg

Historical Context: The 1917 10 Pfennig from Coburg, issued by the City within the Duchy of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha under Duke Charles Edward, exemplifies German Notgeld during World War I. Acute metal shortages, driven by the war effort, compelled local authorities to issue provisional coinage. Struck in zinc, a common substitute, this coin facilitated local commerce, highlighting the era's economic strain and the widespread need for emergency currency as imperial issues became scarce.

Artistry: Reflecting its emergency origins, the artistry of this 10 Pfennig is largely functional. Specific engravers for such utilitarian Notgeld are rarely documented; the stylistic school is minimalist and functionalist. The design prominently features the denomination, "10 Pfennig," on one side. The reverse typically displays the issuing authority, "STADT COBURG," and the date "1917." Any additional motifs, if present, are simple, prioritizing clarity and ease of production.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, this coin presents unique preservation challenges. Zinc is a soft, reactive metal, making these issues highly susceptible to "zinc rot," manifesting as pitting and surface degradation. High points, typically raised lettering and numerals, are frequently weakly struck due to the material's properties and hurried wartime production. Even uncirculated examples often exhibit a somewhat mushy appearance, lacking the sharp definition of other metals.