5 Pfennig - Kempten Mechanische Baumwollspinnerei

Historical Context: This 5 Pfennig token, issued by the City of Kempten for its Mechanische Baumwollspinnerei, likely originates from the tumultuous period of World War I or its immediate aftermath, circa 1915-1923. Severe shortages of small change prompted German municipalities and private enterprises to issue emergency currency, Notgeld. Kempten, a Bavarian city, utilized this token to ensure local economic stability and facilitate transactions, particularly for the cotton mill's employees, amidst the broader monetary instability of the German Empire and nascent Weimar Republic.

Artistry: As is common for industrial Notgeld, this token’s design emphasizes functionality. A specific engraver is improbable, with the style being utilitarian and direct. The obverse would typically feature the issuer's full name, "Kempten Mechanische Baumwollspinnerei," along with the denomination, "5 Pfennig." The reverse might display the city's coat of arms or a simplified motif representing the cotton industry, such as a bobbin, or simply the year. The aesthetic prioritizes clear communication for its intended purpose.

Technical/Grading: Struck in iron, measuring 19.3 mm and weighing 2.5 g, this token exhibits characteristics typical of wartime emergency issues. High points susceptible to wear include the raised lettering on the issuer's name and denomination, and any central motif. Due to the base metal, surface integrity is paramount for grading; corrosion and pitting are common degradations. Strike quality can vary, often showing less precision than standard coinage, with instances of weak strikes or off-center alignment.