20 korun 1944 specimen

Common. Despite being a specimen note from wartime, market data demonstrates consistent availability at modest prices. eBay auction records spanning 2013-2026 show these notes regularly selling in the $3-$20 range, with most transactions occurring at $5-$10. The 2016 catalog valuation of $15 for UNC and $1.75 for VF further confirms this as a readily available collector item. The relatively large print run by Goznak and the specimen note designation (limiting appeal to currency specialists rather than general collectors) contribute to its common classification.

The 1944 20 korun note was issued during the final year of World War II, when Czechoslovakia was under Nazi occupation. The design prominently features the Czechoslovak Republic's national symbols—including the eagle with spread wings and heraldic elements—reasserting national identity during a period of political upheaval. The Moscow printing by Goznak reflects the complex geopolitical situation of Central Europe at the war's end, as Soviet influence began to shape the region's post-war institutions.

The obverse features a symmetrical design centered on an ornate numeral '20' framed by decorative cartouches with heraldic winged elements flanking the denomination. The reverse displays the Czechoslovak national eagle with fully spread wings as the dominant central motif, surrounded by elaborate scrollwork and floral ornaments characteristic of high-quality intaglio work. The eagle design incorporates elements of the national coat of arms, reinforcing state authority and national pride. Both sides employ fine-line engraving with intricate background patterning (wave or feather-like designs) to enhance security and aesthetic appeal. The paper base is a light tan/beige, with the design executed in dark navy/black ink.

Front side: '20' (denomination, repeated in ornamental cartouches). Back side: 'ČESKOSLOVENSKÁ REPUBLIKA' (Czechoslovak Republic, arced across upper portion); 'DVACET KORUN' (Twenty Crowns, in Czech, displayed below the central eagle); '1944' (issue date); 'BB 108709' (serial number, printed in red in upper corners, appears on both sides).

Intaglio engraving (recess printing), executed by Goznak State Security Printing House in Moscow. The note exhibits characteristic fine-line engraving work with complex geometric and floral patterns, multiple denomination numerals, and intricate background designs typical of high-security banknote production. The perforated 'SPECIMEN' or 'NEPLATNÉ' (not valid) overprint appears as a security measure on specimen notes.

This example displays serial number 'BB 108709' in red ink, representing one of the documented '2 serial number varieties' noted for this issue. The Pick catalog reference P-47s identifies this as the specimen variety (s-suffix), perforated with 'SPECIMEN' or 'NEPLATNÉ' overprint. The Goznak printer signature and Moscow printing location distinguish this from any potential alternative printings. The note represents the standard specimen production for this denomination and date.