5 Pfennig - Oschersleben

Historical Context: The 1917 5 Pfennig coin from Oschersleben emerged from the profound economic pressures of World War I within the German Empire. As traditional coinage metals like copper and nickel were diverted for the war effort, municipalities across Germany, including Oschersleben, issued emergency currency known as Notgeld. This iron denomination served to maintain local commerce amidst severe material shortages, highlighting the decentralized response to a national crisis and the critical role of local authorities in sustaining daily life during wartime.

Artistry: While the specific engraver for this Notgeld issue is typically unrecorded, the design adheres to the functional aesthetic common to wartime emergency coinage. Stylistically, these pieces often prioritize clear legibility of the issuing authority (Stadt Oschersleben) and denomination over elaborate artistic flourishes. The design likely features the city's name and value, possibly incorporating a simplified municipal emblem, reflecting a pragmatic approach to currency production under duress rather than adherence to a specific artistic school.

Technical/Grading: Struck in iron, this 5 Pfennig coin presents unique grading considerations. Key high-points susceptible to wear and corrosion include the raised lettering of "Oschersleben" and the date. Due to the nature of emergency production and the hardness of iron, strike quality can vary, often exhibiting areas of weakness, particularly on peripheral details or finer elements of any central motif. Surface preservation is paramount, as iron is highly prone to rust, which can significantly obscure details and degrade overall condition.