20 reichsmark 1940

Common. While the PMG 67 EPQ condition grade is exceptional, the underlying note type itself circulated in substantial quantities. eBay pricing data shows VF-graded examples consistently selling in the $4-$9 range across multiple years, with even EF examples rarely exceeding $10. A single PMG 67 specimen sold for $137.50 in April 2020, but this represents a significant grade premium rather than inherent rarity of the note itself. The catalog value of $30 UNC (2008 data) and consistent availability in the market confirm this as a commonly encountered issue in any grade.

Issued by the Reichskreditkasse (Reich Credit Treasury) in 1940 during Nazi Germany's consolidation of financial institutions under state control, this note reflects the regime's centralization of monetary authority. The Brandenburg Gate depicted on the reverse was a powerful symbol of German nationalism, frequently appropriated by the Nazi state for propaganda purposes. The Reichsadler with Nazi insignia visible on the obverse further emphasizes the political context of this issue during World War II.

The obverse presents a portrait of an 18th-century styled gentleman with period clothing and long hair rendered in profile facing left, positioned prominently on the right side of the note. A circular security seal or watermark area occupies the center-left. The reverse features the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor), the neoclassical monument symbolizing Berlin and German power, depicted within an ornate rectangular frame as the central vignette. Large ornate denomination numerals '20' frame both sides of the note. The entire design employs intricate geometric and floral border patterns with fine linework throughout, characteristic of high-quality banknote engraving of the period. The color scheme of brown and mauve on cream background provides excellent contrast and visual distinction.

Front side: '20 Reichsmark' (Twenty Reichsmarks), 'Zwanzig' (Twenty), 'Ausgegeben auf Grund der Verordnung über Reichskredithässen' (Issued on the basis of the regulation regarding Reich credit institutions), 'Hauptverwaltung der Reichskredithässen' (Main administration of Reich credit institutions), Serial number 'N·0206787'. Back side: '20' (denomination numerals on both sides), 'Reichskreditkassen' (Reich Credit Treasury/Institution).

Intaglio printing (engraved plate printing), the standard security printing method for German banknotes of this era. The fine detail work visible in the background patterns, the sharp impression of all design elements, ornate borders, and the portrait rendering are characteristic of intaglio production. The Reichskreditkasse notes were typically produced by the Reichsbank printing facilities or contracted security printers. The observed microprint-style patterns and elaborate linework confirm multi-plate intaglio techniques were employed.

The specific variety is identified by Pick catalog number P-R139 for the 1940 Reichskreditkasse 20 Reichsmark issue. The observed serial number N·0206787 indicates this is from a standard production run with letter prefix 'N'. No apparent overprints, watermark variations, or signature varieties are noted that would constitute a distinct catalogued variety. This represents the standard design type for this denomination and issuer.