2 Pfennig

Historical Context: This 1616 2 Pfennig coin from Bocholt emerges from a period of escalating tensions within the Holy Roman Empire, just two years before the devastating Thirty Years' War. While nominally under the Prince-Bishopric of Münster, the 'City of' designation highlights Bocholt's municipal minting rights. Such copper denominations were crucial for daily transactions amidst potential silver shortages, reflecting the city's efforts to maintain internal commerce and economic stability in a turbulent era.

Artistry: The engraver of this humble copper issue remains anonymous, common for municipal small change of the period. Stylistically, the coin aligns with the late Renaissance and early Baroque transition, characterized by a pragmatic, less ornate design typical of German civic coinage. The obverse likely features the city's coat of arms, traditionally depicting a tree, symbolizing local identity. The reverse would typically bear the denomination and date, or a simpler cross motif, executed with functional clarity.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a copper flan, this 2 Pfennig coin frequently exhibits characteristics of early 17th-century production. High-points prone to wear include the central elements of the city arms, such as the tree's foliage, and the outer edges of the legends. Technical strike quality can vary significantly, often showing weak strikes, particularly towards the flan edges, and irregular planchet shapes. Copper's susceptibility to environmental factors means corrosion and surface imperfections are frequently observed.