1921 German City of Langen-Salza 50 Pfennig

1921 German City of Langen-Salza 50 Pfennig
CA$9.00

This is a German Notgeld (emergency money) note from Langen-Salza, issued in 1921, with exceptionally strong military-historical symbolism. It is one of the more dramatic and story-driven Notgeld designs, making it very popular with collectors.

 

  • Issuer: Stadt Langen-Salza (Thuringia)

  • Denomination: 50 Pfennig

  • Issue year: 1921

  • Type: Local emergency currency (Notgeld)

  • Paper: Card stock / paper

  • Artist: A. Leusch (signed on the cannon scene)

    Obverse (Front): Cannon & the Battle of 1866

    • Depicts a Prussian artilleryman pushing a cannon into position.

    • Inscription at top right:

      • “27. Juni 1866” — the date of the Battle of Langensalza.

    • This battle occurred during the Austro-Prussian War, when Hanoverian forces defeated Prussia tactically—but were later forced to surrender.

    • The image symbolizes:

      • Military valor

      • Sacrifice

      • Regional historical pride

    • Style is bold, graphic, almost poster-like, typical of strong narrative Notgeld.

    🏰 Reverse (Back): City Arms & Civic Authority

    • Features the coat of arms of Langen-Salza:

      • Three towers beneath a crenellated crown, symbolizing fortified town status.

    • Banners read:

      • “Langen-Salza”

      • “1921”

    • Official text states the note must be redeemed by 1 September 1921 at the city treasury:

      “…bei der Stadthauptkasse zur Einlösung vorzulegen.”

    • Signed by Der Magistrat (city council).

    This side emphasizes municipal legitimacy and authority, balancing the emotional military scene on the front.