Several German currencies were referred to as “Mark” throughout the “Deutsches Reich” (German Realm) period, from 1871 to 1945.
- German Empire (1871–1918): Coins were minted in various denominations, including Pfennig and Mark, with 20 Pfennig and 1 Mark silver coins introduced in 1873.
- Weimar Republic (1918–1933): Coins from this period, including 50 Pfennig, 3, 200, and 500 Mark, were subject to significant inflation, rendering them near worthless.
- Nazi Germany (Third Reich, 1933–1945): The currency during this time was the Reichsmark, which replaced the Rentenmark. Coins included denominations like 1, 2, 5, 10, 50 Pfennig, and 1, 2, 3, and 5 Reichsmark. Coins from this period are of interest to collectors due to the political and historical context. Examples include the silver 2 Reichsmark coin featuring Paul von Hindenburg and the Nazi swastika on the reverse. Additionally, zinc 1 Reichspfennig coins were minted during World War II, replacing the bronze version as an emergency measure.
- Online Marketplaces: Sites like [eBay] and [Amazon] offer various “Deutsche Reich” coins, including sets and individual pieces.
- Specialty Coin Dealers: Many coin companies specialize in collectible coins, including those from Germany. Examples in the US include Numismax Rare Coin Company in Denver, CO, Rocky Mountain Coin in Denver, CO , and American Numismatic Investments in Englewood, CO.
The value of these coins is primarily based on their historical and numismatic significance, rather than their face value. Factors like condition, rarity, and the presence of specific features, like the Swastika on Third Reich coins, influence the price. For example, a 1 Mark coin from 1950 with a “D” mint mark can fetch around 90 USD in regular strike and 150 USD in proof condition. In contrast, the 1 Reichsmark of Nazi Germany has no exchange value with the current US dollar. It is recommended to consult with a reputable numismatic expert for accurate valuation.
How much is a Reichsmark worth today?
One reichsmark has no exchange value with the current US dollar. The reichsmark was the currency of pre-war and wartime Germany. It was replaced in West Germany by the Deutschmark in 1948, and the DM was itself was replaced by the euro in 2002. During WWII the reichsmark had a nominal exchange rate of 2.50 rm = US $1.
Are 3rd Reich coins worth anything?
Good point! These coins are valued by collectors as they reflect significant changes in design and materials imposed by the regime of the time, making them rare and highly collectible historical artifacts.
How valuable was the Reichsmark?
Inflation in the final months of the war had reduced the value of the Reichsmark from 2.50 ℛ︁ℳ︁ = $1US to 10 ℛ︁ℳ︁ = $1US and a barter economy emerged due to the rapid depreciation. After V-E Day, the Reichsmark’s value decreased to 200 per dollar.