6 Pfennig

Historical Context: The 1636 Herford 6 Pfennig coin originates from the heart of the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), a period of immense strife for the Holy Roman Empire. Herford, an Imperial Free City in Westphalia, faced significant economic strain and military pressure. This copper denomination reflects the severe scarcity of precious metals and the necessity for functional small change amidst widespread debasement. It serves as a tangible artifact of the city's resilience and struggle for stability during a brutal conflict.

Artistry: The engraver for this utilitarian copper issue remains anonymous, typical for wartime civic coinage. Its design adheres to the functional aesthetic of the early Baroque period. The obverse customarily features Herford's civic arms, likely a crowned eagle or a fortified gate, symbolizing its imperial freedom. The reverse clearly displays the denomination "6 PFENNIG" and the date "1636," often within a simple legend. Legibility and practicality were prioritized over intricate ornamentation, fitting for an emergency issue.

Technical/Grading: Examples of the 1636 Herford 6 Pfennig frequently exhibit variable strike quality, characteristic of wartime copper production. High-points, such as the crown or eagle details of the city arms, or the raised lettering, are often weakly struck or flattened. Planchets commonly present irregularities like laminations or uneven thickness, indicative of hurried minting. Collectors should anticipate a spectrum from off-center strikes to specimens with surface pitting, reflecting the challenging conditions under which these vital coins were produced.