1921 – German City of Monschau 50 Pfennig

This visually striking 1921 German Notgeld was issued by the district authority of Monschau, a historic town in the western Eifel region near the Belgian border. Produced during the Weimar Republic’s emergency currency period, the note is admired for its strong regional symbolism and finely executed artwork.

The obverse presents a picturesque half-timbered village scene along the Rur River, with traditional houses lining the waterway and the ruins of Monschau Castle visible on the wooded hilltop beyond. Framing text emphasizes German identity and regional pride, while the denomination 50 Pfennig is clearly displayed in the lower corners. A poetic inscription praises the beauty and quality of the region, reinforcing its cultural importance.

The reverse is dominated by an ornate circular medallion featuring a medieval standing figure holding a staff, symbolizing authority, protection, and historical continuity. Surrounding text identifies the issuing authority as the Kreis Monschau and notes that the note lost its validity on 1 October 1921, a common feature of Notgeld issues meant to encourage rapid circulation.

With its harmonious color palette, balanced layout, and evocative landscape imagery, this Monschau Notgeld issue is a highly desirable piece for collectors of scenic, architectural, and regional German emergency currency.

Details

• Date Issued: 1921

• Denomination: 50 Pfennig

• City / Town: Monschau, Germany

• Theme: Townscape and river scene, medieval symbolism, regional pride, German Notgeld