1921 – German City of Merseburg 25 Pfennig Notgeld

1921 – German City of Merseburg 25 Pfennig Notgeld
CA$10.00

1921 German City of Merseburg 25 Pfennig Notgeld note is a beautifully illustrated example of emergency currency issued during the early Weimar Republic. Authorized by the City of Merseburg (Saxony-Anhalt) and dated 1 May 1921, this note was produced to address severe shortages of small change in post-World War I Germany.

The obverse features a warm golden-ochre color tone with a bold “25” denomination at the top. The central vignette depicts Bishop Thilo von Trotha, a significant historical figure in Merseburg’s ecclesiastical history, shown holding a crozier and book. The surrounding inscription identifies him as Bischof Thilo v. Trotha, Erbauer d. Schlosses Merseburg, commemorating his role as builder of Merseburg Castle in the late 15th century. This strong medieval imagery reflects the educational and narrative character that makes German Notgeld so collectible.

The reverse displays “Gutschein der Stadt Merseburg” (Voucher of the City of Merseburg) along with the familiar black raven perched on a ring, a recurring heraldic symbol associated with the city. Additional features include an official serial number, municipal authorization “Der Magistrat”, and the treasurer’s signature. The note was printed by Gebrüder Parcus, München, one of Germany’s most respected security printers of the period.

Municipal Notgeld issues such as this were intended for temporary circulation and were often redeemed or destroyed, making surviving examples desirable today. The 25 Pfennig denomination is particularly sought after due to its bold design, historical portrait, and higher face value within the Merseburg series.

Key Banknote Details

  • Year Issued: 1921 (dated 1 May 1921)

  • Country: Germany

  • City: Merseburg

  • Denomination: 25 Pfennig

  • Issuer: City of Merseburg

  • Printer: Gebr. Parcus, Munich

  • Type: Notgeld (Emergency Money)

  • Era: Weimar Republic / Post-WWI