1922 – German City of Jena 75 Pfennig

This visually striking 1922 Notgeld issue from the university city of Jena celebrates scientific achievement and intellectual progress. The obverse features a bold portrait of Ernst Abbe, the renowned physicist, social reformer, and co-founder of the Carl Zeiss optical works. Shown in profile beside a microscope, Abbe is rendered in a modern, expressionist style that emphasizes reason, research, and innovation. Angular shapes and the prominent “75” denomination reinforce the note’s contemporary, forward-looking aesthetic.

The reverse presents a radiant starburst design centered on the 75 Pfennig denomination, symbolizing enlightenment, knowledge, and the far-reaching impact of science. The contrasting blue, white, and golden tones create a dynamic visual effect, while official inscriptions detail the limited validity period and municipal authority. Together, the imagery and typography strongly reflect Jena’s identity as a center of education, optics, and scientific advancement during the Weimar era.

Date Issued
1 May 1922

Denomination
75 Pfennig

City / Town
Jena, Germany

Theme
Science and education, Ernst Abbe, academic heritage, modern graphic design, Weimar-era emergency money

This Jena 75 Pfennig Notgeld note is a standout collectible, prized for its tribute to scientific history, powerful graphic composition, and its embodiment of intellectual resilience during Germany’s inflationary period.