2 Pfennig - Augsburg Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg

Historical Context: This 2 Pfennig coin, issued by the City of Augsburg in conjunction with the Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg (MAN), exemplifies German Notgeld. Though the year is unstated, its zinc composition and municipal-industrial origin firmly place it within the World War I or immediate post-war era. Acute metal scarcity and economic turmoil compelled cities and major firms like MAN to issue emergency currency. These local issues were vital for sustaining daily commerce when official government coinage became scarce.

Artistry: The design reflects the utilitarian aesthetic typical of Notgeld. Lacking a specified engraver, these pieces prioritized clear legibility and functional communication over artistic embellishment. The stylistic approach favors straightforward industrial or municipal representation. The obverse likely features "Stadt Augsburg" and denomination, while the reverse prominently displays the Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg, highlighting its role in the coin's issuance and local economic context.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, chosen for wartime availability, this 2 Pfennig coin presents distinct preservation and grading challenges. High-points prone to wear include raised lettering and central motifs. Zinc's softness and reactivity make corrosion, or "zinc rot," a primary grading concern, often appearing as pitting. Technical strike qualities are variable; many Notgeld issues exhibit less precise strikes, with common occurrences of planchet flaws and unevenness due to expedited production.