1921 - German City of Potsdam 50 Pfenning

1921 - German City of Potsdam 50 Pfenning
CA$18.00

Identification

  • Denomination: 50 Pfennig

  • Issuer: Stadt Potsdam

  • Date: 28 November 1921

  • Region: Brandenburg, Germany

  • Type: Municipal Notgeld (emergency issue)

  • Serial number: Visible at bottom (45674)

  • Official seal: Embossed municipal seal at center-bottom

  • Signed: City magistrate (handwritten facsimile)

Design & symbolism

  • Imperial eagle shield: At the top, symbolizing civic authority and continuity despite political upheaval

  • Bold Gothic lettering: “Städte Sparkasse Potsdam” / “Potsdam zahle” reflects official municipal backing

  • Large “50 Pfennig” numerals: Emphasize value at a time when confidence in money was collapsing

  • Yellow/orange background: Bright, high-contrast color chosen for quick recognition and anti-counterfeiting

Unlike the satirical or pictorial Notgeld, this is a formal, voucher-style issue, meant to look authoritative and trustworthy.

Text explained (in plain English)

  • “Gegen diese Anweisung aus unserem Guthaben an den Überbringer”
    → “Against this voucher, payment will be made from our funds to the bearer.”

  • “Gültig bis …” (implied by format)
    → Valid for a limited period, common for emergency money

  • Place & date: Potsdam, 28 November 1921