25 Pfennig - Rothenburg ob der Tauber Stöberlein Turm

Historical Context: Issued in 1921 by the City of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, this 25 Pfennig piece exemplifies German Notgeld from the Weimar Republic era. Following World War I, Germany experienced severe economic instability and hyperinflation, compelling municipalities like Rothenburg to issue localized currency. This iron issue reflects the scarcity of precious metals and the desperate measures taken to facilitate local commerce amidst national economic collapse, highlighting the widespread need for emergency coinage.

Artistry: The design of this 25 Pfennig coin is characteristic of municipal Notgeld, emphasizing local identity. While a specific engraver is typically unrecorded, the stylistic school leans towards pragmatic, often illustrative representations of local landmarks. The obverse features the denomination and issuing authority, while the reverse prominently depicts the Stöberlein Turm, one of Rothenburg's historic towers. This choice underscores the coin's role as a symbol of local resilience and heritage during a turbulent period.

Technical/Grading: Struck in iron, this coin's technical qualities are often dictated by the base metal and rapid production. Key high-points for grading include fine architectural details of the Stöberlein Turm, such as windows, roof structure, and any crenellations, along with the clarity of the legends. Due to iron's susceptibility to corrosion, well-preserved examples showing strong strike definition and minimal environmental damage are highly sought after. Planchet quality can vary, with some examples exhibiting minor surface imperfections.