1921 - German City of Potsdam - 50 Pfennig

1921 - German City of Potsdam - 50 Pfennig
CA$18.00

Offered is an authentic 1921 Germany Potsdam Notgeld 50 Pfennig banknote, part of the popular Potsdamer Gutschein illustrated series issued during the Weimar Republic inflation period. This artistic emergency note features a Prussian soldier humorously labeled “Bombenschmeißer”, shown in full uniform holding military equipment, reflecting the satirical tone and cultural storytelling for which Potsdam Notgeld is well known.

A distinctive musical staff with period song lyrics appears across the top of the design, adding charm and historical character. The reverse is issued by the Stadt Sparkasse Potsdam, displaying bold Gothic lettering, the Potsdam red eagle city crest, and official issue details dated November 28, 1921, with validity through April 1, 1922.

Printed in warm yellow and orange tones using early 20th-century lithographic techniques, this note is highly collectible among enthusiasts of German Notgeld, Weimar-era paper money, inflation currency, and illustrated military-themed banknotes.

A standout example of Germany’s emergency currency artistry and a great addition to any world banknote collection.

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