1921 - German City of Potsdam - 50 Pfennig

CA$18.00

Authentic 1921 Potsdam 50 Pfennig Notgeld (emergency money) issued by the City of Potsdam during Germany’s post-World War I inflation crisis. This striking illustrated note features a uniformed soldier standing at attention on the obverse with musical notation above, and an ornate Gothic reverse displaying the Potsdam city crest and denomination. A classic example of German illustrated Notgeld, celebrated for its artistry, historical context, and strong collector appeal among Weimar Republic and German paper money enthusiasts.

Obverse (Front)

Denomination: 50 Pf. printed at the top left.
Artwork:
Shows a standing Prussian infantry soldier in full uniform, wearing a tall military helmet and holding a rifle with fixed bayonet. The pose is formal and disciplined, reflecting traditional Prussian military imagery.
Musical Notation:
A musical staff with notes and humorous text runs across the top, a common feature of artistic German Notgeld designed to entertain as well as circulate.
Title:
“Potsdamer Gutschein” (Potsdam Voucher) printed prominently at the bottom.
Design & Color:
Printed in yellow-orange tones with black and muted green highlights, using detailed line engraving and lithographic techniques typical of early 1920s emergency currency.

Reverse (Back)

Issuer:
“Die Stadt Sparkasse Potsdam” (The City Savings Bank of Potsdam).
Denomination:
Large central “50 Pfennig” in bold Gothic lettering.
Coat of Arms:
The Potsdam city crest with a red eagle appears at the top center.
Issue Date:
Potsdam, 28. Nov. 1921
Validity:
“Gültig bis 1. Apr. 1922” (Valid until April 1, 1922).
Serial Number:
Printed at the bottom (example shown: 07966).
Additional Details:
Official signatures and decorative background patterns frame the design, enhancing both security and visual appeal.