Germany 5 Pfennig (Federal Republic)
Country of Origin: Germany (Federal Republic of Germany)
Year of Issue: 1993
Denomination: 5 Pfennig
Composition: Brass-plated steel
Brief Description
A small, brassy golden-colored coin featuring an oak seedling on the obverse and the numeral 5 between two stalks of rye on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This coin was a staple of German daily life from 1950 until the introduction of the Euro in 2002. By 1993, following German reunification, these coins were used across the entire unified country.
Estimated Value
$0.10 - $0.50 recirculated, $1.50 - $4.00 in Mint State (MS-65+)
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free holder (like the current 2x2 cardboard flip) to prevent 'green slime' corrosion. Avoid cleaning, as the brass plating can easily be scratched or stripped.
Mint Mark
G - Staatliche Münze Baden-Württemberg, Karlsruhe location
Mintage & Rarity
Common; approximately 47,800,000 minted for the 'G' mark in 1993.
Weight & Diameter
3.00 grams / 18.5 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated. The coin retains most of its original luster but shows minor surface abrasions and slight toning consistent with light handling.
Obverse (Front)
An oak seedling (five leaves) centered, surrounded by the legend 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the year '1993' at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
A large numeral '5' centered, flanked by two stalks of rye. The word 'PFENNIG' is at the bottom, and the mint mark 'G' is visible at the top center.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition and mint mark. While 1993 is a common year, coins in high-grade uncirculated condition carry a small premium for type collectors.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the East German (GDR) 5 Pfennig, which is made of aluminum and much lighter, or the German 10 Pfennig which is larger.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
As a low-value base metal coin, counterfeits are rare. Verify magnetic properties (the steel core must be strongly attracted to a magnet).
Notable Varieties & Errors
Minor die cracks or slightly rotated dies are known but generally do not command significant premiums.
Created At: 2026-06-03T20:40:22.327228