Obverse

Reverse

5 Pfennig

5 Pfennig (Federal Republic of Germany)

Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) · 1985

A small, brass-colored circulation coin featuring an oak seedling on the obverse and a large '5' between two ears of rye on the reverse.

Country: Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany)
Year: 1985
Denomination: 5 Pfennig
Metal: Brass-plated Steel

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

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Overview

A small, brass-colored circulation coin featuring an oak seedling on the obverse and a large '5' between two ears of rye on the reverse.

Historical significance

This coin was a standard circulation piece of West Germany before the adoption of the Euro in 2002. It represents the economic stability of the post-WWII 'Wirtschaftswunder' era.

Obverse (front)

An oak seedling with five leaves on a horizontal line. Legend: 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the year '1985'. Designer: Adolf Jäger.

Reverse (back)

A large numeral '5' in the center, flanked by two ears of rye. The mint mark 'G' is at the top center, and the word 'PFENNIG' is at the bottom. Designer: Adolf Jäger.

Estimated value

$0.10 - $0.50 in circulated condition; $1.00 - $3.00 in high Mint State.

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade is the primary factor. While 1985 is a common year, coins in pristine 'uncirculated' condition carry a small premium.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated to Mint State (shows original luster with very minor surface marks).

Mintage & rarity

Approx. 34,400,000 for 1985-G; Common rarity.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Use a magnet; the coin has a steel core and should be strongly magnetic. Check for crispness in the oak leaves and rye detail.

Notable varieties & errors

None widely recognized for this specific date and mint, though some minor die rotations may exist.

Similar coins

Often confused with the smaller 1 Pfennig or larger 10 Pfennig coins of the same series, which share the same oak/rye motif designs.

Care & preservation

Keep in a dry environment to prevent corrosion of the steel core. Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprints on the brass plating. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules.

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