50 Pfennig - Bochum, Gelsenkirchen, Hattingen

Historical Context:Issued in 1918, this 50 Pfennig from Bochum, Gelsenkirchen, and Hattingen represents vital German Notgeld from World War I's final year. Acute metal shortages and wartime economic strain forced local authorities to issue provisional currency. This communal issuance underscores the shared economic challenges faced by these industrial Ruhr districts, ensuring continuity of local commerce amidst national upheaval and inflationary pressures.

Artistry:The engraver for this Notgeld issue is typically unrecorded, common for emergency coinages under wartime duress. Stylistically, the coin adopts a utilitarian approach, prioritizing clarity and functionality. Designs were straightforward, featuring the denomination, issuing authority, and date prominently. Rapid, economical production precluded complex motifs or intricate detailing, reflecting the era's practical exigencies rather than a distinct artistic school.

Technical/Grading:Struck in iron, weighing 4.6 grams and 22.9 millimeters, this coin poses unique preservation and grading challenges. Iron is highly susceptible to corrosion, making well-preserved examples with minimal rust scarce. Strike quality for wartime iron issues varies; central devices and legends are usually clear, but finer details often appear softer than on coins in more malleable metals. High-points for wear include raised lettering and central design elements, prone to flattening due to the metal's properties.