1971 Austrian 5 Schilling Coin (Copper-Nickel)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · Not Applicable (Copper-Nickel alloy). The item appears silver-toned due to nickel content, not gold.
Purity: 0% / None. This is a base metal coin composed of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% / None. This is a base metal coin composed of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel.
Gold Type
Not Applicable (Copper-Nickel alloy). The item appears silver-toned due to nickel content, not gold.
Weight
4.8 grams (Standard Specification)
Description
A standard circulation 5 Schilling coin from Austria's Second Republic. It features the numeral 5 above a horizontal shield flanked by laurel branches and the date 1971 split on either side.
Key Features
Bold sans-serif 'SCHILLING' text; stylized shield with horizontal banding; split 19-71 date placement.
Color & Finish
Dull grey/silver tone typical of circulated cupro-nickel; matte surface with significant environmental patina and oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Year: 1971; Denomination: 5 Schilling; Features the Austrian federal coat of arms on the reverse (implied).
Dimensions Estimate
23.5 mm Diameter; 1.7 mm Thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (Standard coin milling)
Chain & Links
Not Applicable
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; high-relief numeral 5; industrial-grade engraving typical for mid-20th-century fiat currency.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and alignment for Austrian Mint 1970s coinage; wear patterns consistent with soft cupro-nickel; no precious metal hallmarks because it is not gold.
Origin & Maker
Austria; Münze Österreich (Austrian Mint), Vienna
Era & Period
Modern (Second Republic of Austria)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1971 (Approximately 53 years old)
Cultural Significance
A staple of Austrian daily commerce for decades, representing the country's post-WWII economic stability.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) circulation grade. Shows heavy surface scratches, dings on the rim, and significant darkening/tarnish.
Value Estimate
Face value is obsolete; numismatic value is roughly $0.25 - $1.00 USD. No melt value for gold or silver.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a non-PVC coin flip.
Similar Items
German Mark, Swiss Franc, or historical Silver 5 Schilling pieces (pre-1968 coins contained silver and are often confused with these cupro-nickel issues).
Interesting Facts
The Austrian Schilling was replaced by the Euro in 2002. This specific design was minted between 1968 and 2001.