10 Pfennig - Giessen

Historical Context: The 1918 Giessen 10 Pfennig coin emerged from the severe economic strain of World War I's final year in the German Empire. Issued by the City of Giessen, it exemplifies Notgeld (emergency money), necessitated by critical metal shortages. Strategic materials were diverted for war, forcing municipalities to issue low-denomination currency, often in zinc, to sustain local commerce amidst a collapsing national monetary system under Kaiser Wilhelm II. This decentralized issuance highlights the profound disruption of central authority during the conflict.

Artistry: The artistry of this wartime emergency issue prioritizes utilitarian clarity; engravers are typically unrecorded for such expedient productions. Its stylistic school reflects pragmatic wartime production, featuring clear legends for denomination, issuing authority, and date. The obverse usually displays "STADT GIESSEN" and the value, while the reverse shows "10 PFENNIG" and the year "1918," often with minimal ornamentation like a simple border or a civic emblem. The design's simplicity ensured rapid and cost-effective minting.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, this 10 Pfennig piece exhibits technical qualities common to wartime Notgeld. High-points susceptible to wear include the raised lettering of "STADT GIESSEN," the numerals "10" and "1918," and any central motif. Strikes are often inconsistent, showing flatness or incomplete detail due to the metal's properties and rapid production. Zinc coins are highly prone to environmental degradation, such as surface pitting and "zinc pest," making well-preserved examples exceptionally scarce today.