The 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value is a topic of considerable interest for collectors and numismatists. These historical coins, minted during a pivotal period in German history, possess both intrinsic and numismatic value. While an average 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value might be around $20, exceptional specimens can command prices well over $200. This comprehensive guide explores the factors that determine the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value, providing insights into grading, mintmarks, metal content, and market dynamics.
Understanding the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 Reichsmark Coin
The 5 Reichsmark coin from 1938 is a significant piece of German coinage. It was composed of 0.900 silver, meaning 90% silver and 10% copper. Each coin contains 12.492 grams of pure silver, equivalent to approximately 0.4016 troy ounces. This silver content provides a baseline for the coin’s intrinsic value, which fluctuates with the market price of silver. As of August 19, 2025, the silver value alone for a 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value was approximately $15.04.
These coins feature designs characteristic of the era. The obverse typically displays the German eagle with a swastika, while the reverse shows the denomination “5 Reichsmark” and the year of mintage, 1938. The specific design elements and their condition play a role in the overall appeal and value of the coin.
Key Factors Influencing 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 Coin Value
Several critical factors determine the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. Collectors often consider a combination of these elements when assessing a coin’s worth.
Condition and Grade
Condition, or grade, is paramount in determining the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. Coins are graded on a standardized scale that assesses their preservation and wear. Professional grading services, such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), provide objective evaluations.
- Uncirculated (Mint State – MS): Coins in this condition show no signs of wear and retain their original mint luster. Grades within the MS category range from MS-60 to MS-70, with higher numbers indicating better preservation.
- A 1938-A (Berlin mint) 5 Reichsmark coin in certified high-grade condition (NGC MS-63) has been offered for 215 USD.
- A 1938-E (Muldenhütten mint) 5 Reichsmark graded MS63 by PCGS has been offered for 165 USD.
- About Uncirculated (AU): These coins show only a trace of wear on the highest points of the design.
- Extremely Fine (XF/EF): Coins in this grade have light wear on the highest points, but all major details are sharp.
- Very Fine (VF): Moderate wear is visible, but all lettering and major features are clear.
- Fine (F): Significant wear is present, but the overall design is still discernible.
- Very Good (VG): Heavily worn, but the main outlines of the design are still visible.
- Good (G): Very heavily worn, with only the major design elements faintly visible.
Generally, the higher the grade, the higher the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. A coin with an MS-63 grade will be significantly more valuable than one graded VF.
Mintmark
The mintmark identifies the specific mint where the coin was produced. Different mints had varying production numbers, which directly impacts the rarity and thus the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. The mintmarks for 1938 German coins are:
- A: Berlin mint
- D: Munich mint
- E: Muldenhütten mint
- F: Stuttgart mint
- G: Karlsruhe mint
- J: Hamburg mint
The rarity associated with specific mintmarks can significantly influence the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. For example, while the Berlin mint (A) produced over 6 million coins in 1938, the Munich mint (D) produced 1,304,000. This disparity in mintage figures means that coins from lower mintage mints may fetch higher prices, even in comparable condition.
- The average price for a 1938-A (Berlin mint) 5 Reichsmark is listed at 20 USD.
- For the 1938-G (Karlsruhe or Stuttgart mint) 5 Reichsmark coin, the average price is also listed at 20 USD.
- A 1938-E (Muldenhütten mint) 5 Reichsmark graded MS63 by PCGS has been offered for 165 USD.
Precious Metal Content
As mentioned, the 1938 5 Reichsmark coin is made of 0.900 silver. This means that a significant portion of the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value is tied to its intrinsic silver content. Even if a coin is heavily worn and has little numismatic value, its melt value (the value of the silver it contains) will still provide a base price. As of August 19, 2025, the silver value was about 15.04 USD. This intrinsic value acts as a floor for the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value, ensuring that even common or lower-grade examples retain some worth.
Rarity and Mintage Figures
Rarity is closely linked to mintage figures. The fewer coins produced by a particular mint in a given year, the rarer those coins are considered. Rarity is a primary driver of demand among collectors, which in turn elevates the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. Understanding the mintage figures for each mintmark in 1938 is crucial for assessing rarity.
- Berlin (A): Over 6,000,000
- Munich (D): 1,304,000
- Muldenhütten (E): Mintage figures vary by source, contributing to its potential rarity.
- Stuttgart (F): Mintage figures vary.
- Karlsruhe (G): Mintage figures vary.
- Hamburg (J): Mintage figures vary.
Coins from mints with significantly lower mintage figures, such as Munich (D), generally command higher prices than those from high-mintage mints like Berlin (A), assuming comparable condition.
Valuing Your 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 Coin
To obtain the most accurate 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value for your specific coin, consider the following steps:
Self-Assessment (Preliminary)
1. Identify the Mintmark: Locate the small letter on the coin that indicates its mint of origin (A, D, E, F, G, or J).
- Assess the Condition: Carefully examine your coin under good lighting. Look for signs of wear on the high points of the design, scratches, dents, or signs of cleaning. Compare your coin to online grading guides or images of professionally graded coins to get a preliminary idea of its condition.
- Calculate Intrinsic Silver Value: Use an online silver calculator or current spot price of silver to determine the melt value of your coin (0.4016 troy ounces of pure silver). This provides a baseline 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value.
Professional Valuation
For a precise and reliable 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value, professional assistance is recommended.
1. Consult a Reputable Coin Dealer: Experienced coin dealers have extensive knowledge of market trends, rarity, and grading. They can provide an informed estimate of your coin’s value and may even offer to purchase it.
- Professional Grading Services: Sending your coin to a reputable third-party grading service (NGC or PCGS) is the best way to obtain an objective and universally recognized grade. A professionally graded coin typically fetches a higher price in the market due to the assurance of its authenticity and condition. The cost of grading varies but is a worthwhile investment for rare or high-value coins.
- Research Recent Auction Results: Reviewing past auction results for similar coins can provide a realistic idea of the current market value. Online auction archives and numismatic databases often list sale prices for coins with specific dates, mintmarks, and grades. This data can help you understand what collectors are willing to pay for a 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value similar to yours.
Market Dynamics and Price Fluctuations
The 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value is not static; it can fluctuate due to several market dynamics:
- Silver Spot Price: Given the coin’s silver content, variations in the global silver price will directly impact its intrinsic value.
- Collector Demand: The overall demand for German Reich coinage, and specifically for the 1938 5 Reichsmark, influences its market price. Popularity among collectors can drive prices up.
- Economic Conditions: Broader economic conditions can affect discretionary spending on collectibles, including coins.
- Availability of Graded Examples: The number of high-grade examples available on the market can influence prices. If a rare, high-grade example appears for sale, it might set a new benchmark for the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value.
Preservation and Care
Proper preservation is essential to maintain the 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value.
- Handling: Always hold coins by their edges to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your skin, which can cause damage or discoloration over time.
- Storage: Store coins in inert, PVC-free holders or slabs. Avoid soft plastic flips that contain PVC, as these can leach chemicals that damage coins. Airtight capsules or archival-quality coin albums are good options.
- Cleaning: Never clean a coin unless you are a professional conservator. Cleaning can irreversibly damage a coin’s surface, destroy its original patina, and significantly reduce its numismatic 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value. Even seemingly minor cleaning can devalue a coin considerably.
Conclusion
The 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value is a complex interplay of its historical significance, precious metal content, condition, mintmark, and market demand. While an average example might trade for around $20, a well-preserved, professionally graded coin from a rarer mint can command prices upwards of $215. For anyone seeking to determine the precise 1938 Deutsches Reich 5 coin value of their specimen, professional assessment by a reputable coin dealer or grading service is the most reliable approach. Understanding these factors provides a solid foundation for appreciating the worth of these historical German coins.
How much is a Reichsmark coin worth?
I can help with that. According to the latest data as of August 19, 2025 the average price of a Silver coin 5 Reichsmark 1937 with mark A is 15 USD for regular strike and 990 USD for coins minted using the PROOF technology.
Are Reichsmarks made of silver?
This 5 Reichsmark silver coin was minted in Germany during the Third Reich period (1847-1934). The coin features the Nazi eagle and swastika emblem on one side and the denomination and date on the other. This genuine WW2 era coin is made of 90% silver and measures approximately 29mm in diameter.
Who is on the 5 Reichsmark?
Thanks for asking. WW2 Era, Made in Honor of German President and WW1 General Hindenburg.