10 Pfennig - Hammelburg Kant. Verw. II B. 16

Historical Context: The 10 Pfennig coin from the City of Hammelburg, identified as Kant. Verw. II B. 16, belongs to the extensive German Notgeld (emergency money) issues prevalent during and immediately following World War I. Issued by municipal authorities like Hammelburg, these coins addressed severe currency shortages and economic instability when central government coinage was scarce, often due to wartime metal reallocation. This era saw local communities take monetary autonomy, reflecting a decentralized response to national economic turmoil and the onset of hyperinflation.

Artistry: The engraver for this specific Notgeld issue is typically unrecorded, a common characteristic for many emergency coinages of this period. Stylistically, Notgeld often prioritized functionality and local identity over elaborate artistic expression. Designs frequently incorporated the city's coat of arms, local landmarks, or simple allegorical representations pertinent to the community. While utilitarian, these designs often possess a charming folk-art quality, serving as miniature historical documents of local pride and resilience during a challenging era.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, a metal chosen for its availability during wartime shortages, this 10 Pfennig coin weighs 1.9 grams and measures 20.8 millimeters. Zinc is highly susceptible to corrosion and wear, making well-preserved examples challenging to find. Key high-points for grading typically include the highest relief elements of any central motif or lettering, which are often the first areas to show wear. Technical strike quality can vary, with zinc planchets sometimes exhibiting minor imperfections or a less crisp strike compared to more precious metals.