Germany 5 Deutsche Mark 1995 Copper-Nickel Coin (Not Silver)
Coin/Bullion · Staatliche Münze Berlin (A), Munich (D), Stuttgart (F), Karlsruhe (G), or Hamburg (J)
Pattern: Standard Circulation German Deutsche Mark, Oak Leaves Motif
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Staatliche Münze Berlin (A), Munich (D), Stuttgart (F), Karlsruhe (G), or Hamburg (J)
Material
Copper-Nickel clad Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel over Nickel core). Contains zero silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 29mm; Weight: 10.0 grams; Thickness: 2.07mm
Description
A standard circulation 5 Deutsche Mark coin from 1995. While often mistaken for silver due to its size and color, coins after 1974 were transitioned to base metals. The obverse features the iconic three-leaved oak sapling, while the reverse (not pictured) would feature the Federal Eagle.
Key Features
Large 'Heiermann' size; 1995 date; Copper-nickel composition; Oak seedling design.
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel clad Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel over Nickel core). Contains zero silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with matte/circulated finish. Features central oak seedling icon, representative of German strength and growth.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Imprinted 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and '1995'. A mint mark (A, D, F, G, or J) is typically present near the date.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via high-pressure industrial minting presses; die-struck design on a multi-layered planchet.
Functional Features
Smooth edge with incuse inscription: 'EINIGKEIT UND RECHT UND FREIHEIT' (Unity and Justice and Freedom).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic object)
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial precision striking; high-relief detail on oak leaves; machine-lathed edge lettering.
Authentication Indicators
Magnetic properties (clad nickel coins are magnetic, silver is not); standard strike characteristics; correct typography for the Bundesbank.
Origin & Manufacturing
Germany (Federal Republic); minted in one of the five state mints representing the national treasury.
Era & Period
Modern Federal Republic of Germany (Post-WWII / Pre-Euro)
Age Estimate
Dated 1995, minted during the final decade of the Deutsche Mark's use before the Euro transition.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic stability of Germany during the late 20th century and the pre-Euro currency era.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows significant environmental oxidation and surface tarnish, giving it a yellowish/brownish hue rather than the original silver-white luster.
Value Estimate
Approximately $2.50 - $4.00 (Face value conversion is approx. 2.56 Euro; numismatic value is low due to common date and condition).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with silver polish as it is not silver; store in a dry environment to prevent further copper oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1951-1974 Silver 5 Deutsche Mark (containing actual .625 silver); 5 DM Commemorative Silver coins (various motifs).
Interesting Facts
The 5 DM coin was nicknamed the 'Heiermann'. Silver versions of the 5 DM coin (62.5% silver) were discontinued in 1974 because the scrap silver value exceeded the face value.