5 Pfennig - Witten

Historical Context: This 1917 5 Pfennig coin from the City of Witten was issued amidst severe material shortages and economic pressures of World War I. As the German Empire, under Kaiser Wilhelm II, grappled with total war, municipalities nationwide resorted to minting emergency coinage (Notgeld). These issues, often in zinc, were crucial for local commerce, replacing traditional coinage metals diverted to war. Witten, in the industrial Ruhr region, exemplifies this necessity, reflecting the era's resource constraints.

Artistry: The design of this 5 Pfennig piece is characteristic of wartime Notgeld, prioritizing clarity and utility over elaborate artistic expression. Engraver attribution is typically absent for such emergency issues. The stylistic school leans towards functional minimalism, reflecting the urgency and resource limitations of its production. The obverse features "5 Pfennig" and "Stadt Witten," while the reverse displays "1917," often within a simple border. Its aesthetic is a stark testament to the pragmatic demands of its era.

Technical/Grading: Struck in zinc, a metal chosen for wartime availability, this coin is inherently susceptible to environmental degradation, including oxidation and "zinc rot." High-points for wear are typically the raised lettering and numerical digits, particularly the "5" and "1917." Due to zinc's softness and rushed wartime production, strikes can vary, exhibiting weakness in central motifs or legends. Planchet quality is often inconsistent, showing minor laminations or surface irregularities. Preservation is key for these fragile emergency issues.