2 Pfennig - Augsburg Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg

Historical Context: This 2 Pfennig coin from the City of Augsburg dates to the First World War, an era marked by severe metal shortages across the German Empire. Municipalities like Augsburg issued emergency currency, Notgeld, typically struck in base metals such as zinc. The explicit mention of "Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg" (MAN) highlights the critical role of major industrial enterprises in the wartime economy and local currency provision, possibly indicating a specific series for factory workers or a production partnership.

Artistry: The engraver for this issue remains unrecorded, common for hastily produced wartime Notgeld. Stylistically, the coin belongs to the utilitarian school, prioritizing legibility and ease of manufacture. The design likely features the municipal coat of arms of Augsburg on one side, signifying its issuer, while the reverse would display the denomination and the distinctive legend "Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg," underscoring its unique industrial connection.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, a metal prone to rapid degradation, this 2 Pfennig coin often exhibits significant wear and surface corrosion, commonly known as 'zinc rot.' Key high-points for assessing grade include raised heraldry, lettering clarity, and rim integrity. Due to zinc's properties and wartime urgency, strikes can be inconsistent, often presenting planchet flaws or weakness, making well-preserved examples with crisp details particularly desirable.