$52.00 $65.00
TOTAL MINTAGE - 635,000
ASW: 0.8037oz
Europe and world history was forever changed in 1871 when a United Germany, led by Prussia, became an Empire and named Prussia’s Wilhelm I the first King of the German Empire. It was the culmination of the Franco-Prussian War and immediately formed a major world power that would dominate European politics for the next half century ending only with the devasting chaos of World War I.
Short-Lived 5 Mark Coins Of Wilhelm I
The This issue was struck to commemorate the onset of Wilhelm’s reign. Minted for just a two-year-period from 1874 to 1876, it was about the same size, weight, and fineness as America’s famous Morgan Silver Dollar. The coin’s obverse features the stern-looking portrait of King Wilhelm I facing right, while the reverse features an eagle with the denomination. Wilhelm had been King of Prussia since 1861 before becoming the Kaiser of the German Empire in 1871. He would go on to reign until his death in 1888.
PHOTO CONDITION ASSESSMENT
### Obverse (front)
**Wear and Detail Integrity:**
Moderate wear evident, but major features like the portrait remain clear and distinct.
**Luster and Eye Appeal:**
Some original luster is visible, providing a decent overall appearance.
**Surface Condition:**
Minor surface marks are present, generally consistent with the grade.
### Reverse (back)
**Wear and Detail Integrity:**
The eagle and lettering show moderate wear, but remain clear and discernible.
**Luster and Eye Appeal:**
Partial luster persists, contributing to a reasonable eye appeal.
**Surface Condition:**
Light scratches and minor abrasions are visible but not overly distracting.
### Grading Analysis Results
**Grade: XF/AU