1923 – Germany Württembergische Notenbank 50,000 Mark - XF – Stuttgart Hyperinflation Issue

This 1923 Württembergische Notenbank 50,000 Mark banknote was issued during the height of Germany’s hyperinflation period in the Weimar Republic. Dated 10 June 1923, it reflects the rapid economic collapse following World War I, when denominations soared from thousands to millions of marks within months.

The front of the note features intricate Gothic-style typography in deep green and red, with the denomination “Fünfzigtausend Mark” (50,000 Marks) prominently centered. The note’s design embodies traditional German craftsmanship, using complex guilloché patterns and interlaced security motifs to deter counterfeiting during a time of national financial turmoil. The serial number and the issuing city, Stuttgart, appear in bold red ink.

The reverse showcases a striking depiction of two resting stags surrounded by stylized oak branches — symbols of strength, endurance, and German heritage. The massive numeral “50000” dominates the center, framed by repeating “WNB” initials for Württembergische Notenbank. The deep red and forest green color palette enhances the note’s ornamental and historic aesthetic.

Issued just months before the Rentenmark reform that stabilized the currency, this note serves as both a powerful artifact of economic history and a masterpiece of early 20th-century banknote engraving.

Details:

• Country: Germany (Weimar Republic)

• Denomination: 50,000 Mark

• Date Issued: June 10, 1923

• Issuer: Württembergische Notenbank, Stuttgart

• Front Design: Ornate Gothic lettering, serial number in red, security background pattern

• Back Design: Two stags within large numeral “50000”, surrounded by decorative WNB monogram

• Printer: Württembergische Notenbank Issue

• Color Scheme: Red and Green on Pale Pink Background

• Dimensions: Approx. 170 × 95 mm

• Watermark: None (typical for regional issues)