1940-B German 5 Reichspfennig Swastika Coin
This 1940-B 5 Reichspfennig is a historically significant specimen from the Vienna Mint (Hauptmünzamt Wien), struck following the Austrian Anschluss. This issue marks the definitive transition from bronze-aluminum to 100% zinc, as Germany prioritized strategic copper reserves for its expanding military infrastructure. The obverse features the Reichsadler (Imperial Eagle) with a wreathed swastika, while the reverse indicates the value framed by oak leaves. While 63.4 million were minted, the "B" mint mark remains a distinct target for collectors focusing on the geographic expansion of the Reich’s coinage system. Zinc is a highly reactive metal; most surviving pieces from the Vienna Mint exhibit the characteristic dark grey patina or "white rust" oxidation. Finding a specimen with high-relief details on the eagle’s feathers and clear legends is increasingly difficult. Please refer to the photos to evaluate the presence of zinc pest and the clarity of the Vienna "B" mark.