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The Germany 5 Pfennig 1874E coin, cataloged as KM#3 and struck at the Muldenhütten Mint (mintmark “E”), is a small yet historically significant bronze coin from the early years of the newly unified German Empire. Minted just three years after unification in 1871 under Kaiser Wilhelm I, this 5 Pfennig piece served as one of the earliest standard copper-based denominations of the imperial German currency system. In Very Fine (VF) condition, the coin displays moderate circulation wear, but retains bold detail in the central devices and legends, providing a pleasing balance of historic character and numismatic integrity.
The German Empire was officially established in 1871 following the Franco-Prussian War and the consolidation of various independent German states under Prussian leadership. The adoption of a unified currency system followed shortly thereafter, with denominations issued in Pfennig and Mark replacing the diverse coinages of the previous German states. The 5 Pfennig coin was part of this imperial decimal system, with 100 Pfennigs equaling 1 Mark. Introduced in 1873 and struck in bronze, the 5 Pfennig became a staple coin used in everyday commerce throughout the empire.
The obverse of the 1874E 5 Pfennig coin features a bold numeral “5” at center, representing the denomination, with the word “PFENNIG” in a semicircle above and the date “1874” positioned below. A small mintmark “E” appears beneath the date, denoting the Muldenhütten Mint in Saxony, which was one of several mints used to produce imperial coinage in the early years of the empire. In Very Fine condition, the central “5” remains strong and raised, the legends are clearly legible, and the beaded border is mostly intact though softened by circulation. The fields may show moderate smoothing, with some flattening around the high points and outer edges.
The reverse design bears the crowned imperial German eagle, the version used during the early years of the empire before the 1888 redesign. The eagle is depicted with spread wings, a shield at its breast bearing a simplified eagle emblem, and a prominent crown above its head. Encircling the eagle are the words “DEUTSCHES REICH” at the top and the denomination in full, “FÜNF PFENNIG,” at the bottom. In VF condition, the eagle's outline and key details—including the wings, head, and shield—are visible but exhibit moderate wear. The outer lettering is legible with only minor softness in the upper curve or at the extremities of the lettering.
This coin was struck in bronze, with a diameter of 19 mm and a weight of approximately 3.33 grams. The metal composition gave it the durability required for lower-value coins, and the dark brown tone often seen in circulated examples results from years of oxidation and handling. In VF grade, coins often display medium-brown coloration with some darker highlights in recessed areas. Patina adds character to these coins and is desirable when natural and even. Coins in this condition may show minor marks or edge nicks, but retain a generally pleasing appearance with no major damage or corrosion.
The Muldenhütten Mint, designated by the “E” mintmark, was a historically significant but relatively low-output mint during the 19th century. Located in the Kingdom of Saxony, it produced coins for the imperial government in limited quantities, especially compared to the Berlin (“A”) or Munich (“D”) mints. As such, coins bearing the “E” mark often attract added collector interest for mintmark variety sets. While 1874 was an early date in the imperial 5 Pfennig series, coins from Muldenhütten in particular are prized for their regional connection and relatively smaller mintages.
The year 1874 places this coin in the early years of Germany's cohesive national monetary system. At that time, the German economy was experiencing rapid industrialization and expansion, with unified coinage playing a crucial role in streamlining trade and commerce across the former independent states. Coins like the 5 Pfennig were heavily circulated among workers, shopkeepers, and farmers, forming the backbone of petty cash transactions. Their widespread use makes high-grade examples rare, while VF specimens like this one are ideal for collectors seeking authenticity and affordability.
Collectors interested in the early years of the German Empire often pursue the complete set of 5 Pfennig coins by date and mintmark. The 1874E example fits squarely into this pursuit, especially given its early date and the relative scarcity of the “E” mintmark in the broader issue. While not considered rare in the strictest sense, this coin is less commonly encountered than its Berlin-minted counterparts and is more difficult to source in well-preserved, problem-free grades.
In Very Fine condition, the 1874E 5 Pfennig balances historic charm and visual integrity. It still presents well, with legible legends, a bold numeral, and recognizable eagle features. Such examples are suitable for German type sets, 19th-century copper coin collections, or thematic displays focused on German unification. They also serve as tangible links to a formative period in European political and economic history, offering a direct connection to the lives and transactions of ordinary citizens in the new empire.
The Germany 5 Pfennig 1874E KM#3 in Very Fine condition is a compact, durable, and symbolically rich coin that reflects the early identity of the German Empire. With its detailed imperial eagle, solid bronze fabric, and regional mintmark, it holds enduring appeal among numismatists and history enthusiasts alike. Whether collected for its mint variety, historical context, or foundational role in German coinage, this piece remains a valued addition to any well-rounded collection.