Obverse

Reverse

10 Pfennig

German Empire 10 Pfennig (Kriegsgeld)

German Empire (Deutsches Reich) · 1921

A dark, dull grey 10 Pfennig coin with a heraldic eagle on the obverse and the denomination and date on the reverse.

Country: German Empire (Deutsches Reich)
Year: 1921
Denomination: 10 Pfennig
Metal: Zinc

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.

Identified June 3, 2026More german empire (deutsches reich) coins →

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Overview

A dark, dull grey 10 Pfennig coin with a heraldic eagle on the obverse and the denomination and date on the reverse.

Historical significance

Issued during and shortly after WWI, these zinc coins are known as 'Kriegsgeld' or war money. Zinc was used as a substitute for copper-nickel, which was needed for the war effort. The 1921 date represents one of the final years of the German Empire's currency system before the hyperinflation of the Weimar Republic took full hold.

Obverse (front)

The Imperial Eagle (Reichsadler) with a shield on its breast, representing the German Empire.

Reverse (back)

Large numeral '10' in the center, 'DEUTSCHES REICH' inscribed above, and 'PFENNIG 1921' below.

Estimated value

$1-$3 circulated, $10-$20 in high Uncirculated grades.

What drives this coin's value

The primary value factors for zinc coins are the level of corrosion (zinc pest) and the clarity of the date and mint mark. Coins without white powdery oxidation are preferred.

Grade assessment

Very Good to Fine. The coin shows typical oxidation and loss of detail common for zinc coins of this era, with significant surface darkening.

Mintage & rarity

Common; mintage for 1921-A was approximately 40,753,000.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Zinc coins are rarely counterfeited due to low value, but check for proper weight and magnetic properties (Zinc is non-magnetic).

Notable varieties & errors

Varieties exist in the size of the eagle and the spacing of the lettering, primarily interest-driven for specialized German numismatists.

Similar coins

Similar to the 5 Pfennig zinc issues (smaller) and earlier copper-nickel 10 Pfennig (lighter color, more durable).

Care & preservation

Zinc coins are highly susceptible to 'zinc pest' or oxidation. Do not clean. Store in a cool, dry environment with low humidity and avoid contact with PVC-based plastics.

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Overview

Historical significance

Obverse (front)

Reverse (back)

Estimated value

What drives this coin's value

Grade assessment

Mintage & rarity

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Notable varieties & errors

Similar coins

Care & preservation

Other german empire (deutsches reich) coins

Learn about German Empire 10 Pfennig (Kriegsgeld) in the encyclopedia