10 Pfennig - Ratibor

Historical Context: The 1919 10 Pfennig coin from Ratibor, a city in Silesia, emerges from the turbulent aftermath of World War I and the nascent Weimar Republic. As Germany grappled with economic instability and severe metal shortages, municipalities like Ratibor issued emergency currency, known as Notgeld. This iron denomination reflects the scarcity of traditional coinage metals and localized efforts to maintain commerce amidst hyperinflationary pressures and Silesia's complex political status.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains unrecorded, the design of this Notgeld piece typically adheres to a utilitarian aesthetic common to emergency issues. The obverse would feature the denomination and issuing authority, often accompanied by a simple city emblem or coat of arms. The reverse commonly displayed the date and perhaps a brief legend. The stylistic school leans towards functionalism, prioritizing clear communication of value and issuer over elaborate artistic flourishes, reflecting its urgent creation.

Technical/Grading: Struck in iron, this 10 Pfennig coin weighs 3.1 grams and measures 20.2 millimeters. Key high-points for assessing wear and strike quality typically include the raised lettering of the denomination and city name, as well as any central design elements like a crest. Due to iron's inherent properties and the hurried production conditions of Notgeld, examples often exhibit weak strikes, planchet imperfections, and susceptibility to corrosion, impacting preservation and overall grade.