10 Pfennig - Neustadt an der Aisch

Historical Context: Issued in 1917 by the City of Neustadt an der Aisch, this 10 Pfennig piece exemplifies German Notgeld from the Great War. With Imperial Germany under Kaiser Wilhelm II diverting metals for the war effort, municipalities produced their own low-denomination currency. Struck in zinc, this coin highlights severe material shortages and decentralized monetary solutions, sustaining daily commerce amidst national crisis and resource rationing, a testament to wartime economic pragmatism.

Artistry: Lacking a specific engraver, the artistry of this 10 Pfennig reflects the pragmatic aesthetic common to wartime Notgeld. Designs prioritized clear legibility of denomination, issuer, and year over elaborate embellishment. While specific iconographic details are not provided, such coins typically featured the city's name prominently, perhaps a simplified municipal crest. This utilitarian approach underscores rapid production under duress, focusing on immediate recognition rather than grand artistic statements.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, chosen for wartime availability, this coin presents specific technical and grading challenges. Zinc is prone to corrosion ("zinc rot") and exhibits a generally soft strike, leading to rapid wear on high-points. Critical assessment areas include the sharpness of lettering, the rim, and any central device. Nickel-plated variants suggest an early attempt to mitigate zinc's inherent fragility. Even well-preserved examples often display minor surface irregularities or pitting.