10 Pfennig - Münster in Westfalen

Historical Context: The 1917 10 Pfennig from Münster in Westfalen exemplifies Germany's World War I economic challenges. With strategic metals diverted for the war effort, a severe shortage of small change emerged. This prompted hundreds of German municipalities, including Münster, to issue emergency currency, or Notgeld. Struck in zinc, an available and inexpensive metal, this coin was crucial for maintaining daily commerce, directly reflecting the era's resourcefulness and national strain.

Artistry: The design of this 10 Pfennig, characteristic of wartime emergency issues, prioritizes legibility and utility. Engraver details are typically unrecorded for such functional pieces, aligning them with a utilitarian stylistic school. The obverse commonly displays the issuing authority, "STADT MÜNSTER i. W." or similar, and the denomination. The reverse often features the imperial eagle or a simple numerical value. Its starkness reflects the austere conditions and the rapid production imperative of Notgeld across Germany.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 19.0 mm zinc flan weighing 2.1 grams, this coin's technical qualities are typical of wartime emergency production. High-points prone to wear include the raised lettering and any central design elements. Zinc's softness and reactivity make it susceptible to corrosion, pitting, and 'zinc pest'; thus, examples with clean, original surfaces are highly prized. Strike quality often varies, with some weakness or unevenness, especially at the edges, reflecting the hurried minting process.