Republik Österreich 10 Schilling Coin (Non-Gold Identification)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation Currency) · None. The item appears to be cupro-nickel, which has a silvery-grey metallic appearance.
Purity: 0% / Non-Gold. This specific 10 Schilling design is typically struck in a copper-nickel alloy (Cupro-Nickel). It does not contain gold content.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation Currency)
Purity
0% / Non-Gold. This specific 10 Schilling design is typically struck in a copper-nickel alloy (Cupro-Nickel). It does not contain gold content.
Gold Type
None. The item appears to be cupro-nickel, which has a silvery-grey metallic appearance.
Weight
4.0 grams (standard weight for this denomination)
Description
This is a 10 Schilling coin from the Republic of Austria, used as legal tender before the adoption of the Euro. It features the crowned Austrian Federal Eagle, symbolizing the state, with stylized block lettering for the country name. While it has a bright metallic sheen, it is a base metal circulation coin, not a gold bullion piece.
Key Features
Stylized Austrian eagle, scalloped inner border detail, block sans-serif typography, copper-nickel composition.
Color & Finish
Silvery-grey metallic color with a semi-lustrous circulating finish. Visible surface scratches and minor oxidation consistent with handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse features the Austrian Coat of Arms (eagle with sickle and hammer), the numeral '10' on both sides, and the text 'REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH'. No gold hallmarks (like 585 or 750) are present because it is base metal.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 20 mm; Thickness: 1.5 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded/Grained edge (standard for Austrian circulation coinage)
Chain & Links
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by the Austrian Mint. Features a high-relief eagle and clear, crisp lettering characteristic of mid-20th-century industrial coinage.
Authentication Indicators
Design matches official Austrian Mint dies for 10 Schilling cupro-nickel issues. Color and wear patterns are consistent with base metal rather than high-karat gold.
Origin & Maker
Münze Österreich (Austrian Mint), Vienna, Austria
Era & Period
Modern Republic - Second Republic (Post-WWII)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1957 and 2001 (exact year is on the reverse side, not shown in image)
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic stability of post-war Austria and the transition of European currencies toward the Eurozone.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated). Visible contact marks, hairline scratches, and light dirt in the recessed areas. No significant rim dings or corrosion.
Value Estimate
Nominal numismatic value. Resale value typically $0.25 to $1.00 USD. Melt value is negligible as it contains no precious metals.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; do not clean with abrasives. For numismatic value, avoid polishing which can strip the original mint luster.
Similar Items
Austrian 10 Schilling 1951-1952 (Aluminum-Bronze, gold-colored but no gold content), Austrian 1 Gold Ducat (Genuine gold alternative).
Interesting Facts
The 10 Schilling was a staple of Austrian daily life for decades until the Euro was introduced in 2002. While gold versions of Austrian coins exist (like the Ducat or Philharmonic), this specific design was never a standard gold issue.