1 rentelmark 1937

Common. The 1 Rentenmark denomination was widely issued and circulated throughout the 1920s-1930s. eBay sales data provided shows consistent pricing under $20 for UNC examples (ranging $1.04 to $7.01 in most recent sales), with 2016 catalog values at $20 UNC—a strong indicator of common circulation status. While PMG population data shows limited professional grading submissions (typical for low-value historical currency), the abundance of sales listings and modest prices confirm this is a common date and denomination for collectors.

The Rentenmark, introduced in 1923 to stabilize Germany's hyperinflated currency, remained in circulation through 1937 when this note was issued by the Deutsche Rentenbank. The reverse imagery—wheat sheaf (agriculture) and industrial/mechanical symbol—reflected the economic stabilization policy that tied currency value to tangible national assets rather than gold reserves. This 1937 issue date places it in the later years of the Rentenmark's circulation, just as the Nazi regime was consolidating economic control and preparing for territorial expansion.

This note exemplifies the classical engraved banknote design typical of 1920s-1930s German currency. The obverse features a dense, text-based layout characteristic of Rentenmark issues, with ornamental numerals '1' in decorative frames positioned at corners, and an ornate engraved border pattern framing the entire note. The reverse displays the signature allegorical design of Rentenmark currency: two circular medallions within ornate borders—the left medallion contains a wheat sheaf symbolizing agricultural productivity and national resources, while the right features an industrial/architectural motif (likely representing manufacturing and infrastructure). A fine dotted/mesh security pattern covers the background on the reverse. The color scheme is muted (beige/cream with brown and red accents) and typical of the period's printing practices.

FRONT: 'Rentenbankschein' (Rentenbank note) | 'Eine Rentenmark' (One Rentenmark) | 'Deutschereichsbank' (German Reich Bank) | 'Ausgegeben auf Grund der Verordnung vom 15.Oktober 1923(R.G.Bl.I S.969(3))' (Issued pursuant to the ordinance of October 15, 1923) | 'BERLIN, den 30.Januar 1937' (Berlin, January 30, 1937) | 'Deutsche Rentenbank' (German Rentenbank) | 'Präsident und Vorstand:' (President and Board:) | Serial number: D·765071444. BACK: 'Eine Rentenmark' (One Rentenmark) | 'Rentenmark' (Rentenmark) | 'Deutschereichsbank' (German Reich Bank) | Circular seal inscription partially visible with '1' and 'Rentenmark'.

Intaglio (engraved) printing, the standard security printing method for German banknotes of this era. The fine line work, ornate border details, and mesh security patterns visible in the visual analysis are characteristic of high-quality copperplate engraving. The printer was likely the Reichsdruckerei (German State Printing Office) or a licensed security printer under their supervision, standard for Deutsche Rentenbank issues.

This is Pick P-173b, identified by the January 30, 1937 issue date from Berlin. The serial number D·765071444 is consistent with 1937 production. No major varieties are noted for this specific date within standard catalogs, though signature varieties exist across Rentenmark issues depending on which bank officials were in office. The 'b' designation in P-173b likely indicates a specific printing variant or signature combination from this issuing period. The note represents a standard circulation issue with no overprints or emergency designations.