Auction No: 7

Wartime Coins of Occupied Denmark (1941–43) – Set of 5 Zinc Coins Although Denmark declared neutrality during World War II, it was occupied by Germany on April 9, 1940, serving as a strategic base for the invasion of Norway. Initially a protectorate, Denmark came under direct German military occupation in August 1943. Throughout this period, King Christian X and the Danish government remained in the country, albeit with growing tension. This complex political situation is reflected in the wartime coinage: while copper, nickel, and other metals were requisitioned for the war effort, the coins continued to bear the royal cipher but were minted exclusively in zinc, symbolizing both continuity and hardship

Wartime Coins of the Netherlands (1941–44) – Set of 7 (Three Silver, Four Zinc) Despite declaring neutrality, the Netherlands was invaded by Nazi Germany on May 10, 1940, aiming to control its strategic airports and industrial infrastructure for the war effort. The Dutch forces surrendered within five days, prompting Queen Wilhelmina and the government to flee to London. Under German occupation, the 10 and 25 cent coins initially continued to be minted in silver, bearing the Queen’s effigy. However, as the occupation intensified, the coinage shifted to zinc and omitted the Queen’s image. Following liberation in 1944, the silver coins were restored to their prewar design, resuming the tradition of 10 and 25 cent silver pieces.