The 20 Pfennig coin of Germany from the 1870s represents a significant period in the numismatic history of the newly unified German Empire. The coin's issuance began after the unification of Germany in 1871, which followed the Franco-Prussian War. This period marked the transition from various regional currencies to a unified national currency system. The 20 Pfennig coin, along with other denominations, was part of the new imperial currency introduced to standardize monetary transactions across the empire. Made primarily of copper-nickel, the coin featured the imperial eagle on the obverse, symbolizing the strength and unity of the newly formed nation. The reverse displayed the denomination and the year of minting, reflecting a straightforward yet significant step towards a cohesive national identity.

During the 1870s, the German Empire, under the leadership of Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, aimed to solidify its economic stability and foster national unity. The introduction of standardized coinage like the 20 Pfennig was crucial in achieving these goals. The coins circulated widely and facilitated trade and commerce within the empire and with other nations. For numismatists, the 20 Pfennig coins from this era are of particular interest due to their historical significance and the context of their production. They are seen as tangible remnants of the early years of the German Empire, capturing a moment of profound change and modernization in German history. Collectors value these coins for their historical context, relatively high mintages, and the role they played in the economic development of the newly unified Germany.