Obverse

Reverse

1 Pfennig

West German 1 Pfennig

Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) · 1950

A small copper-colored coin featuring an oak seedling and the numeral 1 between two ears of rye.

Country: Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany)
Year: 1950
Denomination: 1 Pfennig
Metal: Copper-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.

Identified May 13, 2026More federal republic of germany (west germany) coins →

Explore West German 1 Pfennig in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Overview

A small copper-colored coin featuring an oak seedling and the numeral 1 between two ears of rye.

Historical significance

A staple of the post-WWII West German economy, this currency was introduced following the 1948 currency reform and remained in use until the transition to the Euro in 2002.

Obverse (front)

Oak seedling with five leaves and two acorns, surrounded by the legend 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the year 1950.

Reverse (back)

The numeral '1' in the center, flanked by two ears of rye. The text 'PFENNIG' is at the bottom, and the mint mark 'D' is at the top.

Estimated value

0.10 - 0.50 USD in circulated condition; up to 10.00 USD in high uncirculated grades.

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade and mint mark are the primary factors. 1950 is a very common year except for specific rare varieties.

Grade assessment

Fine/Very Fine - showing significant surface dirt, darkening (toning), and moderate wear on the oak leaves and rye ears.

Mintage & rarity

Common; high mintage year (approximately 336 million for the D mint in 1950).

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

The coin should be magnetic due to its steel core. Check for clear lettering and the presence of the mint mark.

Notable varieties & errors

Occasional die cracks or minor double strikes occur, but there are no major recognized key varieties for the 1950-D issue.

Similar coins

The 1948-1949 Pfennig looks identical but features the legend 'BANK DEUTSCHER LÄNDER' instead of 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND'.

Care & preservation

Store in a dry environment to prevent corrosion of the steel core. Do not clean with acids or abrasives as it will remove the copper plating.

Other federal republic of germany (west germany) coins

See all

5 Pfennig (Federal Republic of Germany)

Germany (West Germany) · 1950

5 Pfennig

2 Euro Commemorative Coin - 25th Anniversary of German Unity

Germany · 2015

2 Euro

Pfennig

West Germany · 1950

1 Pfennig

2 Euro Commemorative Coin - 25th Anniversary of German Unity

Germany · 2015

2 Euro

1 Deutsche Mark (West Germany)

Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) · 1973

1 Deutsche Mark

5 Deutsche Mark (Germania)

Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) · 1951

5 Deutsche Mark