2 Pfennig - Bremen Bremer Lagerh. Ges.

Historical Context: This 2 Pfennig iron coin, issued by the Bremer Lagerhaus Gesellschaft (Bremen Warehouse Company), represents German Notgeld. Its iron composition places it firmly within the World War I era (c. 1917-1918) or immediate post-war period. During this time, wartime metal requisitioning caused a severe shortage of small change. Local authorities and private enterprises like the Bremer Lagerhaus Gesellschaft issued these essential tokens, ensuring continuity of daily commerce in the crucial port city of Bremen amidst national economic turmoil.

Artistry: Typical for Notgeld of this period and material, the artistic execution prioritizes functionality. Specific engraver details are largely unrecorded for such utilitarian issues; the stylistic school is pragmatic realism. The design would have prominently featured the denomination and the issuer's name, "Bremer Lagerhaus Gesellschaft," likely with simple civic or corporate emblems relevant to Bremen's maritime trade. The aesthetic was driven by urgent circulation needs, resulting in straightforward typography and easily recognizable motifs.

Technical/Grading: Struck on an iron flan (17.8 mm, 1.9 g), these coins exhibit characteristics typical of wartime production. Strike quality varies, with some examples displaying softness in peripheral lettering or finer details due to inconsistent pressure or worn dies. High points, such as raised lettering or central design elements, are particularly susceptible to wear. The iron composition also makes these pieces highly prone to corrosion, pitting, and surface degradation, which are critical grading factors. Well-preserved examples with minimal rust or environmental damage are highly prized.