1921 – Württemberg 10,000 Mark Banknote - VF – Württembergische Notenbank Stuttgart Issue

CA$30.00

This 1921 Württemberg 10,000 Mark banknote, issued by the Württembergische Notenbank in Stuttgart, is a striking early example of Germany’s post–World War I inflationary currency. Dated February 20, 1921, this regional issue predates the peak of Weimar hyperinflation, representing a transitional moment in German economic history when high denominations were first being introduced to stabilize commerce and public trust.

The obverse features bold Gothic-style typography with the denomination “Zehntausend Mark Reichswährung” (Ten Thousand Marks, Imperial Currency) centered within a detailed guilloché pattern. The outer border is a deep navy blue frame, elegantly inscribed with “Württembergische Notenbank” in large block capitals and decorative stars at the corners. The fine background engraving, printed in pale gray and ochre, provides both aesthetic depth and anti-counterfeiting detail, while official signatures at the bottom affirm the note’s authenticity and issuance authority.

On the reverse, the denomination “10,000 Mark” dominates the composition, surrounded by geometric wave and zigzag motifs in blue, gold, and brown hues. The intricate border and ornate Württemberg bank seal to the right add historical and regional authenticity. The serial number, printed in red, stands out against the otherwise subdued color palette, emphasizing this note’s unique identity.

Produced by the Württembergische Notenbank, this issue was part of the regional effort to sustain liquidity and confidence in southern Germany’s economy during the turbulent early 1920s. Its restrained yet sophisticated design reflects both the precision of German engraving and the emerging urgency of inflation-era currency.

Details:

  • Country: Germany (Württemberg, Weimar Republic)

  • Denomination: 10,000 Mark

  • Date Issued: February 20, 1921

  • Issuer: Württembergische Notenbank, Stuttgart

  • Front Design: Gothic inscription “Zehntausend Mark Reichswährung,” bordered with Württembergische Notenbank text and star embellishments

  • Back Design: Large “10,000 Mark” numerals with ornate guilloché, zigzag motifs, and official red serial number

  • Serial Number: 092677

  • Color Scheme: Blue, gold, brown, and gray

  • Language: German

  • Dimensions: Approx. 165 × 95 mm

  • Paper Type: Fine woven paper with watermark

  • Printer: Württembergische Notenbank (Stuttgart regional issue)