1 reichsmark 1940

Common. The eBay market data demonstrates consistent sales in the $1-35 range across multiple condition grades from F to PMG 66, with even PMG 66 specimens (one grade below this note) selling for $34.60-$58 in recent years. The catalog values from 2008 list this denomination at $15 in UNC condition. The substantial number of sales transactions over many years and the low price points indicate a readily available note in the marketplace. Series 1-480 represents a substantial print run typical of wartime currency issued by the Reichskreditkasse.

The Reichskreditkasse (Reich Credit Institute) issued this note in 1940 during World War II as part of Germany's occupied territory currency system. The Imperial German Eagle emblem and formal Gothic inscription referencing the Reichskreditkassen administration reflect the Nazi regime's institutional financial apparatus. The counterfeiting warning in Fraktur script on the reverse ('Geldfalschung ist mit Zuchthaus Bestraft') underscores the regime's strict control over currency and the severe penalties imposed for forgery during the wartime period.

The obverse features a predominantly brown and reddish-brown design dominated by ornate geometric borders in an Art Deco style typical of German banknotes of this era. The Imperial German Eagle emblem is positioned on the left side of the central text area, symbolizing state authority. The reverse displays an elaborate central medallion with geometric and ornamental designs, maintaining the symmetrical geometric border patterns. Both sides eschew portraiture in favor of institutional symbolism and decorative elements, which was characteristic of Reichskreditkasse notes intended for administrative rather than general circulation. The intricate microprint-style patterns throughout serve both aesthetic and security purposes.

FRONT: 'Eine Reichsmark' (One Reichsmark) — the denomination in German. 'Ausgegeben Grund der Verordnung über Reichskreditkassen Hauptverwaltung der Reichskreditkassen' (Issued pursuant to the regulation concerning Reichskreditkassen [Reich Credit Institutes], Main Administration of the Reichskreditkassen) — the issuing authority statement. Serial number: '291 775340'. Block reference: 'DOI 775340'. BACK: '1 Reichsmark' (One Reichsmark) — denomination repeated. 'Geldfalschung ist mit Zuchthaus Bestraft' (Counterfeiting is punished with hard labor/imprisonment) — anti-counterfeiting warning.

Intaglio (copperplate engraving) printing, evident from the crisp, sharp line work and the embossed security stamp visible on the obverse. The fine geometric borders, detailed microprint patterns, and the three-color printing (greenish-black, brown, and multicolor underprint) indicate high-quality security printing typical of German banknote production in 1940. The Reichskreditkasse notes of this series were produced by Giesecke+Devrient, Germany's primary banknote security printer during this period.

This specimen is Pick R136a, indicating it is part of the standard 1940 Reichskreditkasse 1 Reichsmark issue. The series designation visible on the note (Series 1-480) and the serial number format (291 775340) with block reference (DOI 775340) are consistent with the cataloged variety. No overprints or distinctive signature variations are noted in the visual analysis. The embossed stamp and the specific color combination (greenish-black on brown and multicolor underprint) confirm the R136a designation as opposed to other documented varieties of this denomination.