1923 Germany 50 Million Mark Banknote – Weimar Republic Hyperinflation (Pick# 97b)

Issued at the height of Germany’s hyperinflation crisis, the 1923 50 Million Mark banknote (Pick# 97b) is a powerful artifact from the Weimar Republic’s economic collapse. As the value of the German mark deteriorated rapidly, denominations soared into the millions—this note being one of many emergency issues printed to keep up with skyrocketing prices.

Design Highlights

Obverse: Features bold Gothic-style text with the denomination “Fünfzig Millionen Mark” and the issuing authority “Reichsbanknote.” The layout is utilitarian, with minimal ornamentation and no imagery, reflecting the urgency of its production.

Reverse: Blank (uniface), a cost-saving measure typical of inflation-era notes.

Color Scheme: Printed in black ink over a pale underprint, often with subtle green or lilac tones depending on the variant.

Key Specifications

Feature Description
Country Germany
Issuer Reichsbank
Series Hyperinflation Emergency Issue
Pick Number P# 97b
Denomination 50 Million Mark
Size Approx. 160 × 90 mm
Material Paper
Watermark None or basic pattern (varies)
Security Features None
Year of Issue 1923
Withdrawn Late 1923


Why Collect This Note

The 50 Million Mark note is a vivid reminder of the dangers of unchecked inflation and economic instability. It’s ideal for:

Collectors of emergency and inflation-era currency
Historians studying interwar Germany and monetary collapse
Educational exhibits on macroeconomics and crisis finance

Despite its plain design, this note carries immense historical weight. It represents a time when money lost meaning and entire economies teetered on collapse—making it a compelling addition to any world currency collection.