🇩🇪 1964 East Germany 5 Mark Banknote – Celebrating Science and Socialist Identity
Pick# 22 | Numista# 206357

Issued by the Deutsche Notenbank, the 1964 5 Mark banknote from the German Democratic Republic (GDR) is a tribute to Alexander von Humboldt, one of the most influential scientists of the 18th and 19th centuries. As part of East Germany’s post-war currency series, this note reflects the state’s commitment to intellectual heritage and socialist symbolism.

🖼️ Design Highlights
Obverse: Features a detailed portrait of Alexander von Humboldt (1769–1859), the Prussian polymath whose explorations and writings laid the foundation for modern geography and ecology. His image underscores the GDR’s emphasis on scientific achievement.

Reverse: Depicts the main building of Humboldt University in Berlin (Prinz-Heinrich-Palais), reinforcing Humboldt’s academic legacy and the GDR’s pride in its educational institutions.

Typography & Emblems: Includes the state emblem of East Germany—hammer and compass within a wreath of rye—subtly integrated into the design.

📌 Key Specifications
Feature Description
Country German Democratic Republic (East Germany)
Issuer Deutsche Notenbank
Year of Issue 1964
Denomination 5 Mark
Pick Number P# 22
Numista Catalog N# 206357
Printer VEB Wertpapierdruckerei der DDR, Leipzig
Size 135 × 66 mm
Material Paper
Watermark Hammer and compass (GDR emblem)
Demonetized 1981
🎁 Why Collect This Note?
The 1964 5 Mark note is a compelling piece of Cold War-era history. It combines scientific reverence, socialist design, and cultural pride—making it ideal for:

Collectors of East German currency

Enthusiasts of scientific history and exploration

Thoughtful gifts for those born in 1964 or with ties to Berlin or academia

Whether you're building a Cold War collection or seeking a meaningful historical artifact, this note offers intellectual depth and visual elegance.