Catalog
| Issuer | German East Africa |
|---|---|
| Year | 1913-1914 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 5 Heller (0.05) |
| Currency | Decimalized Rupee (1904-1916) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 3.125 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round with a round hole |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Karl Kuhl |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#13, Schön#9 |
| Obverse description | Crown on top, date separated by the whole and 2-line inscription at the bottom. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
19 13 DEUTSCH OST= AFRIKA (Translation: German East Africa) |
| Reverse description | Value from top to bottom seperated by a hole, on the sides two olive branches. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 5 HELLER A |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1913 A - - 1 000 000 1913 A - Proof - 1913 J - - 1 000 000 1913 J - Proof - 1914 J - - 1 000 000 1914 J - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 1451286120 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 5 Heller coin of 1913-1914 was issued under Wilhelm II, the last German Emperor, during a period of intense global colonial competition. German East Africa (Deutsch-Ostafrika) represented a key component of Germany's imperial ambitions. These coins served as essential circulating currency, facilitating trade and demonstrating German administrative control. Issued immediately prior to World War I, they underscore the precarious geopolitical climate and the impending loss of Germany's colonial empire.
Artistry: The design of the 5 Heller reflects the prevailing numismatic aesthetic of the German Empire in the early 20th century. While engraver details are often unrecorded for colonial issues, the stylistic school blends late Victorian classicism with emerging realism. The obverse typically features a majestic imperial eagle, often crowned and clutching a shield, symbolizing German sovereignty. The reverse displays the denomination and date, framed by a wreath, with the "DEUTSCH-OSTAFRIKA" legend denoting its colonial origin.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this 3.125-gram, 21-millimeter coin exhibits good durability. For grading, high-points include the intricate details of the imperial eagle's breast feathers, wing tips, and crown on the obverse. On the reverse, the sharpness of the lettering in "DEUTSCH-OSTAFRIKA" and the numerical denomination are critical indicators of strike quality and wear. Collectors should also assess the clarity of the date and overall field preservation, as these areas are prone to circulation marks.