This listing is for the photographed 1929 German 20 Reichsmark Reichsbanknote. Issued January 22nd, 1929, during the inter-war period in Germany. Portrait of Weimar von Siemens on the right end of the obverse side of this note. Reverse depicts cherubs on the left and right end of this note, with a portrait of an allegorical figure representing industry at the center. Circulated condition with visible folds. Really stunning design and artwork. P#181a (Pick Number 181a).
The Reichsmark (ℛℳ) was introduced as the official currency of Germany in 1924, replacing the Papiermark, which had become almost worthless due to hyperinflation. The Reichsmark was introduced as part of the Dawes Plan, a U.S.-backed effort to stabilize Germany’s post-World War I economy. The Reichsbank, Germany’s central bank, was responsible for issuing these banknotes, which were backed by gold to help restore public trust.
When the Nazis took power in 1933, they centralized control over the Reichsbank and used it to support rearmament and, later, war efforts. New banknotes featured symbols and imagery that promoted Nazi ideology, including portraits of historical German figures. After Germany’s defeat in 1945, the Allies took control of the German economy and currency issuance. The Reichsmark continued to circulate briefly but was greatly devalued due to wartime inflation and scarcity of goods. In 1948, the Deutsche Mark (DM) replaced the Reichsmark in West Germany, while the East German Mark (also DM initially) replaced it in the Soviet-controlled East Germany.
Fascinating piece of history! Making for a great addition to any collection!
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1929 20 Reichsmark German Bank Note - 1929 Reichsbanknote Reichsmark Note - Circulated Condition - 1929 Twenty Reichsmark Note - P#181a