Coin Identifier
10 Pfennig — obverse
Obverse
10 Pfennig — reverse
Reverse
10 Pfennig

10 Pfennig

Germany (Bank deutscher Länder / Federal Republic of Germany) · 1949

A brass-colored German coin featuring an oak sprout on one side and a large numeral 10 with grain stalks on the other.

Country
Germany (Bank deutscher Länder / Federal Republic of Germany)
Year
1949
Denomination
10 Pfennig
Metal
Brass-plated Steel

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Overview

A brass-colored German coin featuring an oak sprout on one side and a large numeral 10 with grain stalks on the other.

Historical significance

Issued by the Bank deutscher Länder shortly after the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) in 1949, representing the post-WWII economic reconstruction period and the precursor to the Deutsche Mark era.

Obverse (front)

Features a central oak sprout with leaves growing from a horizontal line, surrounded by the text 'BANK DEUTSCHER LÄNDER' and the year '1949' at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

Features a large denomination '10' flanked by two curved grain stalks, with the word 'PFENNIG' arched along the bottom and the mint mark 'D' at the top center.

Estimated value

$1 - $5 in circulated condition, up to $15 - $30 in uncirculated condition

What drives this coin's value

Overall state of preservation, presence of mint luster, freedom from corrosion (brass-plated steel is prone to rust if the plating is compromised), and specific mint marks.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (VF) with moderate surface wear and circulation marks, but clear legends and details.

Mintage & rarity

Common for the 1949-D issue, with millions minted, though certain preservation grades are scarcer.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for magnetic properties (brass-plated steel core will attract a magnet). Look for casting bubbles or incorrect weight which indicate counterfeits.

Notable varieties & errors

Minor die cracks, repunched mint marks, and variations in the thickness of lettering.

Similar coins

Later issues of West German 10 Pfennig coins minted by the Deutsche Bundesbank from 1950 onward, which have nearly identical designs.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using cotton gloves to avoid skin oils. Store in a cool, dry place in a PVC-free coin flip or holder. Do not clean, as cleaning can ruin the original finish and reduce numismatic value.