1921 - German City of Potsdam - 50 Pfennig

Authentic 1921 Potsdam 50 Pfennig Notgeld (emergency money) issued by the City of Potsdam during Germany’s post-World War I inflation period. This colorful illustrated note features a uniformed soldier blowing a horn with musical notation above on the obverse, and an ornate Gothic reverse with the Potsdam city crest and denomination. A classic example of German illustrated Notgeld, prized for its humor, artistry, and strong collector appeal among Weimar-era and Notgeld specialists.

Obverse (Front)

• Denomination: 50 Pf. shown at the top left.

• Artwork:
  Depicts a Prussian infantry soldier in uniform, dramatically blowing a signal horn while holding a rifle. The pose is animated and theatrical, reflecting the humorous and patriotic tone common to artistic Notgeld.

• Musical Theme:
  A musical staff with notes and lyrics runs across the top, referencing popular folk or military songs—an identifying feature of this Potsdam series.

• Text:
  “Potsdamer Gutschein” (Potsdam Voucher) printed prominently near the bottom.

• Color & Style:
  Warm yellow and orange background with black linework and muted green uniform tones, printed using early 1920s lithographic methods.

Reverse (Back)

• Issuer:
  “Die Stadt Sparkasse Potsdam” (City Savings Bank of Potsdam).

• Denomination:
  Large central “50 Pfennig” in bold Gothic script.

• Coat of Arms:
  The Potsdam city crest with red eagle at the top center.

• Issue Date:
  Potsdam, 28. November 1921

• Validity:
  “Gültig bis 1. Apr. 1922” (Valid until April 1, 1922).

• Serial Number:
  Printed at the bottom (example shown: 07970).

• Additional Details:
  Official signatures, decorative borders, and patterned background typical of municipal emergency currency.