The deutsches reich 1939 coin value is a subject of significant interest for collectors and historians. Determining the precise value of these historical German coins from 1939 requires considering several factors, including the specific denomination, the coin’s physical condition, its mint mark, and any inherent rarity. This article provides a detailed overview of the market values for various denominations, from the 2 Reichsmark down to the 50 Reichspfennig, based on recent market data.
Factors Influencing Deutsches Reich 1939 Coin Value
Before examining specific denominations, it is beneficial to understand the primary factors that dictate the deutsches reich 1939 coin value:
Condition of the Coin
The condition, or grade, of a coin is perhaps the most critical determinant of its value. Coins are graded on a scale that assesses their wear, luster, and overall appearance.
- Uncirculated (UNC/MS): Coins that show no signs of wear, retaining their original mint luster. These command the highest prices. Grades like MS 64 (Mint State 64) indicate a high-quality uncirculated coin.
- Almost Uncirculated (AU): Coins with only a trace of wear on the highest points, still retaining much of their original luster.
- Extremely Fine (EF/XF): Coins with light wear on the highest points, but all major details are sharp.
- Very Fine (VF): Coins with moderate wear, but all lettering and major features are clear.
- Fine (F): Coins with considerable wear, but the design is still discernible.
- Good (G) / Poor: Coins that are heavily worn, with only major design elements visible. These have the lowest values.
Mint Mark
German coins from this period were produced at various mints, each identified by a specific mint mark. These marks can influence the deutsches reich 1939 coin value if one mint produced fewer coins or if there are known variations specific to a particular mint. Common mint marks include:
- A: Berlin
- B: Vienna (Wien)
- D: Munich (München)
- E: Muldenhütten
- F: Stuttgart
- G: Karlsruhe
- J: Hamburg
Rarity
Rarity can stem from several sources:
- Low Mintage: If a particular denomination or mint mark combination had a low production run in 1939, it naturally becomes rarer and more valuable.
- Errors: Minting errors, such as off-center strikes, double dies, or planchet errors, can make a coin unique and highly sought after by collectors.
- Varieties: Minor design variations or changes in the die during production can create rare varieties that are distinct from standard issues.
Market Demand
The current demand from collectors also plays a role. Popularity of specific historical periods or coin designs can drive up prices.
Specific Denominations and Their Values
Below is a breakdown of the deutsches reich 1939 coin value for various denominations, illustrating typical market prices based on recent sales and listings. It is important to remember that these are examples, and actual prices can fluctuate.
2 Reichsmark (Silver, Hindenburg/Swastika)
The 2 Reichsmark coin from 1939 is a significant piece from the Third Reich era, featuring Paul von Hindenburg on one side and a prominent swastika on the reverse. Its silver content adds to its intrinsic value.
- Circulated Condition: A typical circulated silver 2 Reichsmark coin can be acquired for approximately $12.95. Another instance of a used coin on online auction platforms has been observed at $48. The wide range here often reflects varying degrees of wear and seller expectations.
- Certified, Uncirculated (MS 64): A professionally graded, uncirculated example (MS 64) has commanded a price of $199.99. This demonstrates the substantial premium for coins in pristine condition.
The deutsches reich 1939 coin value for the 2 Reichsmark coin is notably higher for uncirculated examples due to their preservation and appeal to serious collectors.
5 Reichsmark (Silver)
The 5 Reichsmark coin is another silver denomination from 1939, generally larger in size than the 2 Reichsmark. Its value also varies considerably based on condition and mint mark.
- Circulated, Toned: A circulated silver 5 Reichsmark with toning (a natural discoloration of the metal) has sold for $45.99. Toning can sometimes be desirable to collectors if it is aesthetically pleasing.
- Average Quality (E Mint Mark): An average quality 5 Reichsmark coin bearing the “E” mint mark (Muldenhütten) is valued around $40. This suggests that even average examples hold reasonable value due to their silver content and historical significance.
- Uncirculated (BU, A Mint Mark): A brilliant uncirculated (BU) example with the “A” mint mark (Berlin) has been listed for $59.99. This again shows the increased value for uncirculated coins.
- Certified (MS64 Grade): A certified coin graded MS64 has been listed at a much higher price of $480. This significant jump in value for a high-grade certified coin highlights the importance of professional grading for top-tier specimens.
The deutsches reich 1939 coin value for the 5 Reichsmark is considerably robust for higher grades, reflecting its silver content and collector demand.
1 Reichspfennig (Bronze)
The 1 Reichspfennig coin is a small, bronze denomination, typically found in larger quantities and therefore generally less valuable than the silver coins.
- Circulated Condition: A circulated 1 Reichspfennig coin can be purchased for around $2.50.
- With A Mint Mark: Another listing for a 1 Reichspfennig with the “A” mint mark (Berlin) shows it available for $3.96. The slight increase here might be due to better condition or seller pricing.
The deutsches reich 1939 coin value for the 1 Reichspfennig remains modest, making it an accessible coin for beginners or those seeking representative examples of the era.
10 Reichspfennig (Aluminum-Bronze)
The 10 Reichspfennig coin was made from an aluminum-bronze alloy, giving it a distinctive appearance. Its value can vary, especially for special strikes.
- Regular Strikes (F Mint Mark): A 10 Reichspfennig with the “F” mint mark (Stuttgart) in regular strike is valued at approximately $15.
- PROOF Technology (F Mint Mark): Crucially, a 10 Reichspfennig coin minted using PROOF technology (a special method of striking coins for collectors, resulting in a mirror-like field and frosted design) from the “F” mint mark can fetch $210. This illustrates a significant increase in deutsches reich 1939 coin value for coins produced with superior minting techniques and intended for collectors.
This highlights that for certain denominations, the method of production (e.g., proof vs. regular strike) can have a dramatic impact on the deutsches reich 1939 coin value.
50 Reichspfennig (Nickel)
The 50 Reichspfennig coin was composed of nickel. Like other denominations, its value is highly dependent on its condition.
- Average Quality (A Mint Mark): An average quality 50 Reichspfennig coin with the “A” mint mark (Berlin) is valued at $40.
- Poor Condition: In poor condition, its value can be significantly lower, potentially only a few dollars.
- Almost Uncirculated (AU): An example of this coin in almost uncirculated (AU) condition has been listed for $74.90. This indicates that even slight improvements in condition can lead to a substantial increase in deutsches reich 1939 coin value for this denomination.
Where to Find and Research Deutsches Reich 1939 Coin Value
Collectors and interested individuals can find images, further details, and current market prices for these and other 1939 German coins through several resources:
- Online Auction Sites: Platforms such as eBay are excellent places to observe recent sales, current listings, and gauge market demand. Always check seller reputation and coin descriptions carefully.
- Specialized Coin Dealer Websites: Many reputable coin dealers have online inventories with detailed descriptions and images of coins for sale.
- Numismatic Catalogs and Price Guides: Publications like the Standard Catalog of World Coins provide comprehensive listings, mintage figures, and historical pricing information.
- Coin Shows and Exhibitions: Attending local or national coin shows allows direct inspection of coins and interaction with experienced dealers and collectors.
- Online Numismatic Forums and Communities: These platforms offer opportunities to ask questions, share information, and learn from other collectors.
Conclusion
The deutsches reich 1939 coin value is a dynamic figure, influenced by a blend of intrinsic characteristics and market forces. While lower denominations and circulated coins are generally affordable, uncirculated specimens, rare varieties, and those with desirable mint marks can command substantial prices. For anyone interested in collecting or selling these historical artifacts, thorough research into condition, mint marks, and recent sales data is essential to accurately assess their worth. Understanding these factors provides a clear picture of the market for these intriguing pieces of German numismatic history.
Are any German coins made of silver?
From my experience, Among these are the German 10-DM commemorative coins, minted between 1952 and 2001. As mentioned, these coins were made from a silver alloy of 625/1000 until 1997 and the coins minted from 1998 even from 925/1000 silver.
What is the Third Reich 2 Reichsmark?
Physical Details. Circular, silver alloy (est.) coin with a German quote engraved around the edge. On the front is an embossed Nazi emblem of a right facing eagle with spread wings clutching a wreath with a swastika inside, with the denomination 2 and text below and along the rim.