1923 – Württemberg 20,000 Mark Banknote - VF – Stuttgart Issue, Württembergische Notenbank

1923 – Württemberg 20,000 Mark Banknote - VF – Stuttgart Issue, Württembergische Notenbank
CA$35.00

This 1923 Württemberg 20,000 Mark banknote, issued by the Württembergische Notenbank in Stuttgart, is a fascinating artifact from Germany’s Weimar Republic hyperinflation era — a time when denominations soared as economic instability gripped the nation. Dated June 15, 1923, this note exemplifies the rapid devaluation of the German Mark during one of the most turbulent financial periods in modern history.

The obverse features a finely detailed portrait of Friedrich von Schiller (1759–1805), the world-renowned German poet, philosopher, and playwright, whose works such as Ode to Joy inspired generations. His portrait, rendered in precise line engraving, appears against a complex geometric guilloché background in tan, black, and red, framed by intricate borders that showcase early 20th-century German design artistry. Gothic-style script proudly displays the denomination “Zwanzigtausend Mark” (Twenty Thousand Marks), along with the issuing authority and signatures of bank officials.

The reverse side presents the coat of arms of Württemberg, supported by two heraldic deer and inscribed with “Württembergische Notenbank Stuttgart.” The denomination “20,000 Mark” is prominently centered in bold typography with ornate scrollwork, bordered by symmetrical flourishes in deep green and grey. The red serial number adds contrast and authenticity to the historical design.

Printed locally in Stuttgart, this note represents regional emergency money (Landesbank issue) within the broader inflationary collapse of 1923, when regional banks temporarily produced high-denomination notes to sustain trade and commerce.

Today, this piece is highly collectible not only for its historical significance but also for its aesthetic craftsmanship and its reflection of Germany’s cultural resilience during economic turmoil.

Details:

  • Country: Germany (Württemberg, Weimar Republic)

  • Denomination: 20,000 Mark

  • Date Issued: June 15, 1923

  • Issuer: Württembergische Notenbank, Stuttgart

  • Front Design: Portrait of Friedrich Schiller, ornate geometric background, denomination “Zwanzigtausend Mark”

  • Back Design: Württemberg coat of arms with deer supporters, denomination “20,000 Mark”

  • Color Scheme: Tan, black, red, and dark green

  • Language: German

  • Serial Number: 649040

  • Dimensions: Approx. 170 × 95 mm

  • Paper Type: Standard banknote paper with watermark

  • Printer: Württembergische Notenbank Stuttgart