5 Pfennig - Reichenbach Wohltätigkeits and Pflegeanstalt

Historical Context: This 5 Pfennig coin from Reichenbach in der Oberpfalz exemplifies German notgeld, emergency money issued during the post-World War I era of hyperinflation and economic instability. As the central government failed to supply sufficient small change, municipalities and institutions like the "Wohltätigkeits and Pflegeanstalt" (Charity and Nursing Home) issued their own currency. This coin underscores the profound social distress and the necessity for local bodies to manage economies and maintain essential services, serving as a tangible artifact of community resilience.

Artistry: As a utilitarian notgeld issue, this 5 Pfennig coin’s artistry is functional rather than elaborate. A specific engraver is typically unrecorded. The design likely prioritizes clear legibility of the denomination and the issuer, "Reichenbach Wohltätigkeits and Pflegeanstalt," possibly with a simple municipal or institutional emblem. The nickel plated zinc composition underscores a cost-saving, practical approach, characteristic of emergency currency produced during periods of material scarcity, where utility superseded artistic grandeur.

Technical/Grading: Composed of nickel plated zinc, this 5 Pfennig coin presents unique grading challenges. Zinc is soft and highly susceptible to corrosion, manifesting as bubbling or pitting, particularly where plating is compromised. High points vulnerable to wear include raised lettering and any central motifs. While a strong strike yields crisp details and a well-defined rim, notgeld often exhibits variable strike quality, with softer strikes common. Loss of nickel plating is a frequent condition issue, significantly impacting eye appeal and grade, even on unworn examples.