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 crisis. This colorful illustrated note features a dynamic cavalry rider on horseback on the obverse with musical notation above, and an ornate Gothic reverse bearing the Potsdam city crest and denomination. A classic and highly collectible example of German illustrated Notgeld, admired for its artistic detail, local character, and historical significance from the Weimar Republic era.

Obverse (Front)

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

• Artwork:
  Features a Prussian cavalry officer on horseback, captured mid-action while raising his helmet in a spirited gesture. The horse is shown in lively motion, emphasizing energy and pride associated with Prussian military tradition.

• Musical Notation:
  A musical staff with notes and lyrics runs along the top margin, referencing popular folk or military songs of the era—an identifying hallmark of this Potsdam Notgeld series.

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

• Design & Color:
  Warm yellow and orange background tones with black linework and muted green, blue, and orange highlights. Printed using early 1920s lithographic techniques with decorative patterned borders.

Reverse (Back)

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

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

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

• Issue Date:
  Potsdam, 28 November 1921

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

• Serial Number:
  Printed at the bottom (example shown: 07911).

• Additional Elements:
  Official signatures, decorative background patterns, and intricate line work typical of municipal emergency currency.