1921 – German City of Kerpen 50 Pfennig

1921 Notgeld issue from the City of Kerpen is a vivid example of Weimar-era storytelling emergency money, combining medieval legend, civic pride, and satirical historical commentary. Issued during Germany’s post-World War I economic turmoil, this 50 Pfennig note reflects both local identity and artistic creativity typical of German Notgeld.

The obverse features a dynamic medieval procession of armed townsmen marching in formation, rendered in bold black linework with muted earth-tone accents. Raised spears, banners, and rhythmic movement convey unity, defense, and civic strength, while the inscription references historic struggle and perseverance—common symbolic themes used to inspire resilience during inflationary hardship.

The reverse presents a powerful architectural and symbolic scene: a fully armored knight stands guard beneath a fortified stone archway, holding a shield inscribed with moral or satirical text. Flanked by denomination panels and framed by classical masonry, the composition evokes medieval justice, protection, and authority. The dated inscription “1. Westf. 1921” firmly anchors the note within the Weimar emergency currency period.

Printed by Ratsdruckerei R. Dulce, Glauchau (Saxony), this Kerpen Notgeld issue exemplifies the artistic depth and narrative quality that make German emergency money so collectible today.

Details

• Date Issued: 1921

• Denomination: 50 Pfennig

• City / Town: Kerpen, Germany

• Theme: Medieval history, civic defense, satire and moral commentary, local identity, Weimar-era emergency currency