1922 – Germany 1000 Mark Reichsbanknote - VF – Weimar Republic Inflation Era Issue

1922 – Germany 1000 Mark Reichsbanknote - VF – Weimar Republic Inflation Era Issue
CA$15.00

This 1922 German 1000 Mark Reichsbanknote, issued by the Reichsbank in Berlin during the Weimar Republic, is one of the most iconic pieces of early hyperinflation currency in German history. Dated 15 September 1922, this note represents the period just before the catastrophic economic collapse that would define the early 1920s, when the German mark began to lose value at an unprecedented rate following World War I.

The obverse of the note features the bold “1000 Mark” denomination printed in black Gothic script, framed by intricate floral borders and security guilloché patterns. The text reads “Reichsbanknote – Tausend Mark” (“Thousand Mark”), certifying that the Reichsbank would pay the bearer upon demand. The serial number Y 088154 is printed in red, offsetting the tan and rose underprint filled with repeating “1000 MARK” microtext for anti-counterfeiting protection. The note bears the Reichsbank seal and the signatures of Reichsbank officials, along with a legal warning against counterfeiting printed along the lower edge.

The reverse design features elaborate green ornamental filigree with a central medallion enclosing the large denomination “1000 MARK.” The intertwining leaf and floral motifs, inspired by neo-baroque design, add artistic balance to this period of financial turmoil. The note was printed on high-quality paper with watermarks, reflecting Germany’s renowned engraving precision even amid economic instability.

Issued at the dawn of the hyperinflation crisis, this banknote is a historical artifact from a time when the value of the German mark collapsed from thousands to billions per U.S. dollar within a year. Collectors prize this issue for its design, legibility, and connection to one of the most turbulent chapters in global economic history.

Details:

  • Country: Germany (Weimar Republic)

  • Denomination: 1000 Mark

  • Date Issued: 15 September 1922

  • Issuer: Reichsbank, Berlin

  • Printer: Reichsdruckerei, Berlin

  • Front Design: Denomination “1000 Mark,” Reichsbank eagle seal, Gothic script, signatures of Reichsbank officials

  • Back Design: Ornate green guilloché pattern with central “1000 Mark” engraving

  • Color Scheme: Tan, rose, and green

  • Serial Number: Y 088154

  • Dimensions: Approx. 160 × 85 mm

  • Material: Banknote paper

  • Language: German

Historical Context:
The 1922–1923 period marked the onset of German hyperinflation, when paper currency became nearly worthless as the nation struggled with war reparations and economic collapse. By the following year, this 1000 Mark note could buy little more than a loaf of bread, leading to the eventual introduction of the Rentenmark in 1923 to stabilize the economy.