5 Heller - Wilhelm II

Emissor German East Africa
Ano 1913-1914
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 5 Heller (0.05)
Moeda Decimalized Rupee (1904-1916)
Composição Copper-nickel
Peso 3.125 g
Diâmetro 21 mm
Espessura
Formato Round with a round hole
Técnica Milled
Orientação Medal alignment ↑↑
Gravador(es) Karl Kuhl
Em circulação até
Referência(s) KM#13, Schön#9
Descrição do anverso Crown on top, date separated by the whole and 2-line inscription at the bottom.
Escrita do anverso Latin
Legenda do anverso 19 13 DEUTSCH OST= AFRIKA
(Translation: German East Africa)
Descrição do reverso Value from top to bottom seperated by a hole, on the sides two olive branches.
Escrita do reverso Latin
Legenda do reverso 5 HELLER A
Bordo Plain
Casa da moeda
Tiragem 1913 A - - 1 000 000
1913 A - Proof -
1913 J - - 1 000 000
1913 J - Proof -
1914 J - - 1 000 000
1914 J - Proof -
ID Numisquare 1451286120
Informações adicionais

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.

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