eBay Title: 1940 Austria 2 Groschen Zinc Coin – Wartime Occupation Issue – Historical Austrian Coinage – Vienna Mint – WWII Era Artifact

Condition Notes: Even gray toning with mild oxidation typical of zinc issues. Clear details on both sides with legible lettering and full date visible. Moderate wear, consistent with circulation. Please look at photos and judge for yourself.

Description:

Offered here is a **1940 Austrian 2 Groschen coin**, a wartime zinc issue struck under the **German occupation of Austria (1938–1945)**. This coin represents one of the transitional Austrian denominations produced during this politically complex period of European history, when Austria’s monetary system was integrated into the broader German Reich’s structure.

The **obverse** bears the stylized national emblem of the era with the surrounding inscription “ÖSTERREICH” (Austria) and the date **1940** below. The **reverse** displays the large denomination **“2 GROSCHEN”** in bold Art Deco style lettering — a distinctly Austrian design element from the late interwar and early wartime mint series.  

This issue was struck at the **Vienna Mint (Hauptmünzamt Wien)** and composed of **zinc**, a metal widely used during wartime due to silver and copper shortages. Its minimalist design reflects both material austerity and modernist design sensibilities of the late 1930s.  

**Historical Background:**  

After the annexation of Austria in March 1938, coinage continued in Vienna under the new administrative regime. The **2 Groschen** of 1940 is among the earliest wartime issues struck entirely in zinc — a lightweight, corrosion-prone metal that served as an economic substitute during World War II. Although mass-produced, these coins are increasingly scarce in well-preserved condition due to zinc’s chemical instability over time.

**Provenance:**  

This coin comes from my grandfather’s collection. He was an **antique dealer in Austria**, with a special focus on early 20th-century European coins and historical transitions. This coin has been preserved untouched for decades, retaining its natural surface patina and authenticity.

**Specifications:**  

• Country: Austria (under occupation, 1940)  

• Denomination: 2 Groschen  

• Year: 1940  

• Composition: Zinc  

• Weight: 1.7 g  

• Diameter: 18 mm  

• Edge: Plain  

• Mint: Vienna (Hauptmünzamt Wien)  

• Historical Period: WWII Era / Austrian Occupation Coinage  

• Catalog Reference: KM #A4  

A compelling artifact of European wartime numismatics and an important piece of Austrian monetary history. Perfect for collectors of **Austrian, World War II, or transitional European coinage**.  

Please look at photos and judge for yourself; the coin shown is the exact one you will receive.

Estimated Condition: Very Fine (VF)