About me
Welcome to Gary’s Coin Shop — where history, artistry, and passion meet in every coin and banknote.
My name is Gary Schatz, and I’ve been an avid collector for over 45 years. What began as a childhood fascination with the stories behind world currencies has evolved into a lifelong pursuit of uncovering and preserving pieces of our shared global heritage.
I hold a degree in History, which has deepened my appreciation for how coins and banknotes reflect the people, cultures, and events that shaped our world. My collecting interests span Canadian, U.S., and World coins and paper money, from early banknotes and silver issues to rare Notgeld and modern commemoratives. Each piece in my collection has been carefully selected for its authenticity, quality, and historical significance.
At Gary’s Coin Shop, my goal is to help collectors, investors, and history enthusiasts discover coins and banknotes that inspire curiosity and confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or searching for that rare gem to complete your collection, you can count on honest descriptions, fair value, and a shared passion for numismatics.
Thank you for visiting and joining me in exploring the fascinating stories behind the world’s currencies — one coin and banknote at a time.
– Gary Schatz
Collector • Numismatist • Founder, Gary’s Coin Shop
Bermuda: 5-Dollar Note
Nominated for Banknote of the Year 2025
🇩🇪 Germany – 20 Mark Reichskassenschein (1874 Issue)
This is a German 20 Mark Reichskassenschein (Imperial Treasury Note) issued in Berlin on July 11, 1874 — one of the earliest large-format paper notes of the German Empire (Deutsches Reich) following its unification in 1871.
📜 Historical Context:
This 20 Mark note was issued just three years after Germany’s unification (1871), under Kaiser Wilhelm I and Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. The new Imperial Treasury issued these notes to unify Germany’s monetary system under the Goldmark standard, replacing numerous regional currencies.
The design reflects national pride and the new empire’s industrial and military strength, making it a fascinating artifact of Germany’s early nationhood and post-Franco-Prussian War prosperity.
