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The Germany 20 Pfennig 1874B coin, cataloged as KM#5, is a small-denomination silver coin struck at the Hannover Mint, indicated by the “B” mintmark. Minted in .900 fine silver, this coin was issued just a few years after the 1871 unification of Germany, representing one of the early efforts to implement a standardized imperial currency system. In Very Fine (VF) condition, the coin displays moderate circulation wear while retaining clear detail in the central motifs and all inscriptions. Its silver composition, early date, and relatively low-mintage mintmark make it a compelling piece for collectors of German Empire coinage.
The 20 Pfennig silver series was introduced in 1873 as part of the decimalized system created under the newly unified German Empire. It served as a fractional denomination of the 1 Mark, with 100 Pfennigs equaling one Mark. Coins like the 1874B circulated widely during the early years of the empire, facilitating small everyday transactions such as postage, fares, or food purchases. Though a minor denomination, it played a critical role in creating economic cohesion across regions that had previously used different currencies under their respective kingdoms and duchies.
The obverse of the 1874B 20 Pfennig features the crowned imperial German eagle, arms spread, holding a scepter and orb. A central breastplate bears a simplified eagle representing Prussia—the dominant power within the empire. The crowned eagle design symbolizes national unity and imperial authority. In VF condition, the eagle’s overall silhouette is still well-defined, with major features such as the wings, orb, scepter, and crown visible though moderately worn. Fine details in the feathers and shield may show flattening, but the bold central image remains intact and recognizable.
The reverse features the denomination “20 PFENNIG” in large serifed letters, encircled by the legend “DEUTSCHES REICH” at the top and the date “1874” below. The mintmark “B” appears directly beneath the date, identifying production at the Hannover Mint. In Very Fine condition, the legends and numerals are clear, with even wear softening only the sharpest elements. The fields may show light smoothing from circulation, but the coin retains strong legibility and an attractive aged silver tone, typically medium gray with darker toning in the recessed areas.
Struck in .900 fine silver, the 20 Pfennig 1874B weighs approximately 1.111 grams and measures 22 millimeters in diameter. Its size and weight were practical for day-to-day use, while the silver content lent a sense of intrinsic value and trustworthiness—important traits for a new national currency system. However, the high cost of minting such small silver coins led to the series’ discontinuation in 1877, after which the denomination was struck in more economical cupro-nickel. This short mintage period makes silver 20 Pfennigs particularly collectible, with early issues such as the 1874B standing out for their historical context and diminishing availability.
The “B” mintmark of the Hannover Mint adds to the interest of this coin. Unlike larger mints such as Berlin (“A”) or Munich (“D”), Hannover struck smaller numbers of coins during the imperial period. While not the rarest mintmark in the series, “B”-marked coins are noticeably less common than their “A” counterparts. Collectors assembling mintmark sets of the early German Empire coinage often seek out these regional issues, and coins from lesser-used mints like Hannover are increasingly prized, particularly in collectible grades like VF or better.
The year 1874 marks only the second year of issuance for the silver 20 Pfennig coin. Following the imperial monetary law of 1873, coins like this helped solidify the authority of the new centralized government and replaced the patchwork of coinage from the former independent German states. Currency reform was not just an economic policy—it was a symbol of unity and modernization, and coins like the 1874B 20 Pfennig are tangible pieces of that transformation.
In VF condition, the coin exhibits balanced wear across the high points, with the legends, date, and design features remaining fully readable. The rim may show slight smoothing or light nicks, but the overall surface remains free from major damage. Toning is typically even, and examples that have not been cleaned retain their original, desirable patina. While higher grades such as Extremely Fine or Uncirculated command greater premiums, VF examples like this offer an ideal combination of affordability and detail for historical or type collections.
Collectors value the 1874B silver 20 Pfennig for its limited mintage span, silver content, and emblematic design. It’s an essential type for German Empire collectors and holds crossover appeal for enthusiasts of 19th-century European coinage, especially those interested in monetary reform and national unification. Its compact size and dignified design make it ideal for thematic collections focused on eagles, heraldry, or early post-unification issues.
The Germany 20 Pfennig 1874B KM#5 in Very Fine condition is a small yet richly historical silver coin from a transformative era in European history. With its imperial eagle, clear legends, and short-lived silver series pedigree, it captures the ambition and symbolism of the new German Empire’s early years. Whether appreciated for its aesthetic, historical, or numismatic significance, it remains a valuable and engaging piece in any well-rounded collection of 19th-century world coinage.