10 Pfennig - Rositz Braunkohlenwerke A.G.

Issuer Rositz (Saxe-Altenburg), Municipality of
Year
Type Emergency coin
Value 10 Pfennigs (10 Pfennige) (0.10)
Currency Mark (1914-1924)
Composition Iron
Weight 2.0 g
Diameter 20.0 mm
Thickness 1.0 mm
Shape Octagonal (8-sided)
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) Men05#21894.5, Men18#27368.5
Obverse description Pearl rim, legend surrounding beaded circle with denomination centered
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering ROSITZER BRAUNKOHLENWERKE A.-G. 10 ★
Reverse description Pearl rim, legend surrounding beaded circle with denomination centered
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering KLEINGELDERSATZMARKE 10 ★ ★ ★
Edge Plain
Mint
Mintage ND - -
Numisquare ID 2033639640
Additional information

Historical Context: The 10 Pfennig coin from Rositz, Saxe-Altenburg, represents a critical period in German monetary history, almost certainly issued as Notgeld (emergency money) during or immediately following World War I. The use of iron, a low denomination, and the issuer (Municipality of Rositz, referencing Braunkohlenwerke A.G.), strongly indicates its function in alleviating severe currency shortages and inflation. Saxe-Altenburg, a duchy until 1918, saw numerous local authorities issue such tokens to maintain commerce.

Artistry: Artistically, this emergency issue likely reflects the utilitarian aesthetic common to Notgeld. A specific engraver is improbable, with designs typically executed by local die-sinkers. The stylistic school prioritized clarity and immediate recognition over elaborate artistic expression. The obverse would feature the denomination and issuer, while the reverse might incorporate symbols of the Rositz Braunkohlenwerke A.G., such as mining tools, emphasizing the community's industrial identity during scarcity.

Technical/Grading: Technically, the striking of iron Notgeld often exhibits characteristics of rapid production

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