The question of how much is a Nazi coin worth is complex and depends on numerous factors that collectors and historians must carefully consider. Nazi-era German coins, minted between 1933 and 1945, represent a controversial yet historically significant segment of numismatics. Understanding their value requires examining multiple variables, from metal content and condition to rarity and market demand.
Understanding Nazi-Era German Coinage
During the Third Reich period (1933-1945), Germany issued various denominations of coins that featured Nazi symbolism, including the infamous swastika and eagle emblems. These coins were part of everyday circulation and were produced in massive quantities to support the German economy during wartime. Today, they serve as tangible artifacts of one of history’s darkest periods.
The German Reichsmark was the official currency during this era, with coins ranging from small denomination Reichspfennig pieces to larger Reichsmark coins. Each denomination tells a story about wartime economics, material shortages, and the propaganda machine of the Nazi regime.
Key Factors Determining Nazi Coin Values
Denomination and Metal Content
The most significant factor in determining how much is a Nazi coin worth lies in its denomination and the metal used in its production. During World War II, Germany faced severe metal shortages, leading to dramatic changes in coin composition.
Lower denomination coins made from base metals like zinc, aluminum, or iron are generally the least valuable. These materials were chosen due to wartime shortages of precious metals, making them abundant and relatively common today.
Higher denomination coins, particularly those made from silver, command significantly higher prices. Silver 2 Reichsmark and 5 Reichsmark coins are among the most sought-after pieces, especially those featuring prominent Nazi imagery.
Gold coins from this era are extremely rare and valuable, though very few were produced during the Nazi period due to the government’s hoarding of gold reserves.
Year of Mintage and Mint Marks
The specific year a coin was minted plays a crucial role in its value. Some years had lower production numbers due to wartime constraints, making those coins rarer and more valuable. Additionally, coins from the early Nazi period (1933-1936) often differ in design and availability compared to wartime issues (1939-1945).
Mint marks indicate where a coin was produced, with different German mints operating during this period. Some mint marks are scarcer than others, particularly those from mints that were destroyed during Allied bombing campaigns or ceased operation early in the war.
Condition and Grading
Coin condition dramatically affects value, with professional grading services using a 70-point scale:
- Poor to Fair (1-12): Heavily worn coins with barely visible details
- Good to Very Good (8-20): Clearly worn but with readable inscriptions
- Fine to Very Fine (12-35): Moderate wear with good detail retention
- Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated (40-58): Light wear with sharp details
- Mint State (60-70): Uncirculated coins with varying degrees of preservation
Higher grades command premium prices, sometimes increasing a coin’s value by 500% or more compared to heavily circulated examples.
Historical Significance and Rarity
Certain Nazi-era coins carry additional historical weight due to their association with specific events or propaganda campaigns. Coins commemorating the annexation of Austria (Anschluss) or featuring prominent Nazi leaders beyond Hitler are particularly sought after by collectors interested in historical artifacts.
Limited mintage coins or those with production errors are especially valuable. Some coins were recalled or destroyed, making surviving examples extremely rare and valuable.
Specific Nazi Coin Values and Examples
Low-Value Base Metal Coins
1 Reichspfennig (Zinc, 1940-1945)
These small denomination coins were produced in massive quantities using zinc due to wartime metal shortages. Circulated examples typically sell for:
- Poor to Good condition: $1-$2
- Fine to Very Fine condition: $2-$4.25
- Extremely Fine or better: $5-$10
10 Reichspfennig (Zinc, 1940-1945)
Slightly more valuable than the 1 Reichspfennig, these coins feature the Nazi eagle and swastika prominently:
- Average circulated condition: $2-$6
- Higher grades: $8-$15
Mid-Range Aluminum Coins
50 Reichspfennig (Aluminum, 1939-1944)
These coins feature the Nazi eagle and swastika design and are popular among collectors:
- Fine to Very Fine condition: $5-$8
- Extremely Fine: $10-$15
- About Uncirculated: $20-$30
High-Value Silver Coins
2 Reichsmark (Silver, 1936-1939)
These silver coins are among the most collected Nazi-era pieces:
- Good to Very Fine condition: $25-$40
- Extremely Fine: $45-$70
- About Uncirculated to Mint State: $80-$150
5 Reichsmark (Silver, Hindenburg/Swastika, 1936-1939)
The most valuable commonly available Nazi coins, featuring President Hindenburg and Nazi symbolism:
- Very Fine condition: $35-$50
- Extremely Fine: $60-$100
- About Uncirculated: $120-$200
- Mint State examples: $200-$300+
Special commemorative 5 Reichsmark coins can command even higher prices, particularly those in exceptional condition or with historical significance.
Market Dynamics and Demand
The market for Nazi-era coins is influenced by several factors beyond traditional numismatic considerations. Historical interest drives much of the demand, with collectors, museums, and educational institutions seeking authentic artifacts from this period.
International demand varies significantly, with some countries having stronger markets for historical militaria and coins. European collectors often show particular interest, while markets in countries directly affected by Nazi occupation may have different perspectives on these items.
Investment potential exists for high-grade examples of scarcer coins, though the controversial nature of these items can affect long-term marketability.
Where to Buy and Sell Nazi Coins
Online Marketplaces
eBay remains one of the largest platforms for buying and selling Nazi-era coins, offering a wide selection and competitive pricing. However, buyers should exercise caution and verify authenticity.
Etsy and other specialized platforms also host sellers of historical coins, often with detailed provenance information.
Specialized numismatic websites cater specifically to coin collectors and often provide more detailed information about authenticity and grading.
Physical Locations
Local coin shops may carry Nazi-era German coins, and dealers can provide valuable expertise about authenticity and fair pricing.
Coin shows and conventions offer opportunities to examine coins in person and negotiate with multiple dealers.
Auction houses occasionally feature significant Nazi-era coins, particularly rare or high-grade examples.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Legal Restrictions
Some countries have laws restricting the sale, import, or possession of Nazi memorabilia, including coins. Germany itself has strict regulations about displaying Nazi symbols, though exceptions exist for educational and historical purposes.
International shipping of these items may face restrictions, and buyers should research local laws before purchasing.
Ethical Debates
The collection of Nazi memorabilia remains controversial. Supporters argue that preserving these artifacts serves important educational purposes, helping future generations understand and remember historical atrocities.
Critics contend that collecting such items can glorify or normalize Nazi ideology, potentially attracting individuals with extremist sympathies.
Responsible collecting involves understanding the historical context, using items for educational purposes, and being sensitive to the feelings of those affected by Nazi persecution.
Authentication and Professional Appraisal
Given the value and controversial nature of Nazi-era coins, professional authentication is crucial. Reputable coin dealers specializing in German or World War II coinage can provide accurate appraisals and verify authenticity.
Third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC can provide professional grading and authentication, though their policies regarding Nazi-era items may vary.
Documentation and provenance can significantly affect value, particularly for rare or high-value pieces.
Conclusion
Understanding how much is a Nazi coin worth requires careful consideration of multiple factors, from basic numismatic principles to complex historical and ethical considerations. Values range dramatically from $1 for common zinc coins to $300 or more for rare silver pieces in exceptional condition.
Whether approached from a historical, educational, or purely numismatic perspective, Nazi-era German coins represent significant artifacts of a pivotal period in world history. Collectors and investors interested in these items should prioritize authentication, understand the legal and ethical implications, and approach the subject with appropriate historical sensitivity.
For those seeking to buy or sell Nazi-era coins, consulting with professional numismatists and understanding market dynamics will help ensure fair transactions and proper preservation of these controversial yet historically important artifacts.
Are WWII coins worth anything?
Allied Wartime Coins
Value: Uncirculated coins may sell for $50 or more, whereas circulated examples are appraised at $2–$5.