1921 - German City of Potsdam - 50 Pfennig
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Issuer: City of Potsdam (Potsdam, Brandenburg, Germany)
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Denomination: 50 Pfennig
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Type: Notgeld (Emergency Money)
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Date of Issue: Circa 1921–1922
- Front Design:
The note depicts a Prussian cavalryman (Hussar) on horseback, raising his sabre in motion — a nod to Potsdam’s historical role as the garrison town of the Prussian army and residence of the famous “Potsdamer Garderegimenter” (Potsdam Guard Regiments).
The ornate background features stylized patterns in orange and yellow, with the Imperial Eagle motif faintly visible.
Musical Notes:
Above the text is a musical score snippet, likely referencing a marching tune or cavalry song associated with Potsdam’s military history.
🪙 Reverse Design
Many Potsdam Notgeld notes of this series include scenes or text on the reverse — often humorous, poetic, or patriotic — though your scan shows only the front. The reverse might carry a continuation of the military theme or a depiction of Potsdam landmarks such as the Garrison Church or Sanssouci Palace.
📜 Historical Notes
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Potsdam was the heart of Prussian military tradition, and many Notgeld designs from the city highlight soldiers, officers, or the royal household of Frederick the Great.
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The humor and musical elements reflect the Volkskunst (folk art) character of regional Notgeld.
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This series was printed on thick paper with multicolor lithography, typical of higher-quality city issues of 1921.
Collectors value this note for its military imagery, bright coloration, and association with Potsdam’s Prussian heritage.-