In November 2013, the German government will issue a €10 collector’s coin on the theme of «Heinrich Hertz: 125 years of electromagnetic waves». This coin commemorates the discovery of electromagnetic waves by the physicist Heinrich Hertz (1857–1894). 

The collector’s coin is being issued in two versions: a mint-condition coin made from a cupronickel alloy, and a higher-value collector’s quality silver coin with a proof-like finish. The silver coin weighs 16 grams. The alloy is made up of 625 parts silver to 375 parts copper, indicated by the inscription «Silber 625».

According to the Federal Ministry of Finance, the coin was designed by the artist Othmar Kukula from Neuhausen, Germany.

The jury made the following comments on the winning design:

«The coin’s obverse shows a Hertzian dipole, which represents the discovery of electromagnetic waves. The field lines of the Hertzian dipole are the key element of the wave propagation proved by Hertz’s experiments. The design also successfully incorporates the unit of frequency named after Hertz (Hz) and the researcher’s signature.
The delicate outline of an eagle on the reverse side of the coin skilfully mirrors the structure of the lines on the obverse side. The stars and markings complete the harmonious design of the coin.»

The coin’s obverse shows a Hertzian dipole, which represents the discovery of electromagnetic waves.

The reverse features an eagle framed by the words BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND, the value and denomination, the letter «G» for the federal mint in Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg, the year 2013, and the twelve stars of Europe.

The coin’s smooth edge is embossed with the inscription: «LICHT IST EINE ELEKTRISCHE ERSCHEINUNG (LIGHT IS AN ELECTRICAL PHENOMENON).»

The mint condition coins can be purchased at all Bundesbank branches.

Country: German
Data of issue: 2013
Face value: 10 euro
Metal: Silver .625 
Weight: 16 g