This listing is for the photographed 1939 Germany Reichsbanknote 20 Reichsmark Banknote. Issued on June 16th, 1939, in the midst of World War II. Portrait of a young woman on the right end of the obverse side of this note. Reverse depicts a scene of a lake and mountains at the center, flanked by two male figures on each side of the scene. Choice of grade/condition. P#185 (Pick Number 185). Rare and sought after German banknote in excellent condition, great find!

The Reichsmark (ℛℳ) was introduced as the official currency of Germany in 1924, replacing the Papiermark, which had become almost worthless due to hyperinflation. The Reichsmark was introduced as part of the Dawes Plan, a U.S.-backed effort to stabilize Germany’s post-World War I economy. The Reichsbank, Germany’s central bank, was responsible for issuing these banknotes, which were backed by gold to help restore public trust.

When the Nazis took power in 1933, they centralized control over the Reichsbank and used it to support rearmament and, later, war efforts. New banknotes featured symbols and imagery that promoted Nazi ideology, including portraits of historical German figures. After Germany’s defeat in 1945, the Allies took control of the German economy and currency issuance. The Reichsmark continued to circulate briefly but was greatly devalued due to wartime inflation and scarcity of goods. In 1948, the Deutsche Mark (DM) replaced the Reichsmark in West Germany, while the East German Mark (also DM initially) replaced it in the Soviet-controlled East Germany.

Fascinating piece of history! Making for a great addition to any collection!

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1939 Germany 20 Reichsmark Banknote - WW2 Reichsbanknote Reichsmark Note - Choice of Grade - 1939 German Twenty Reichsmark Note - P#185