10 Pfennig - Speyer

Historical Context: This 10 Pfennig coin was issued by the City of Speyer in 1917, a pivotal year during World War I. As the conflict intensified, Germany faced severe shortages of circulating coinage, particularly in base metals like copper and nickel, which were diverted for the war effort. This economic strain compelled numerous municipalities, including Speyer, to issue their own emergency currency, known as Notgeld. This specific iron piece serves as a direct artifact of the wartime financial crisis and the localized efforts to maintain commerce in the absence of sufficient national currency.

Artistry: The artistry of this Notgeld issue, while functional, reflects the pragmatic design principles prevalent during wartime production. Specific engraver attribution for such municipal emergency coinage is rarely documented. The stylistic school leans towards utilitarianism, prioritizing clear legibility of the denomination and issuing authority over elaborate artistic flourishes. The design typically features the numeral '10' and 'Pfennig', often accompanied by the issuing city's name, "Stadt Speyer," and occasionally a simple local emblem or date, rendered with directness suitable for mass production under duress.

Technical/Grading: Struck in iron, this 10 Pfennig coin measures 20.4 mm in diameter and weighs 2.4 grams. The choice of iron, a readily available material during the war, often resulted in less precise strikes compared to pre-war coinage. High points for wear would typically be the highest relief elements of the design, such as the central numerals or any raised lettering. Due to the material's inherent properties and rapid production, common technical strike qualities include minor planchet imperfections, weak strikes in certain areas, and susceptibility to surface corrosion, which significantly impacts a coin's grade and overall eye appeal.