5 reichsmark 1940

Common. The eBay price tracking data shows consistent sales of this note in the $1.25 to $26 range over the past decade, with most sales between $2–$10. The note in VF or EF condition typically realizes $3–$10 at auction, indicating robust supply. The 2008 catalog value of $25 for UNC has not materialized in recent market sales, and the AU grade specimen described would likely sell in the $8–$15 range. Regional German currency from the 1940–1945 period is generally common due to substantial print runs and survival rates.

This Reichskreditkasse issue represents emergency currency issued by German credit institutions during World War II, as evidenced by the inscription referencing the 'Verordnung über Reichskreditkassen' (Regulation on Reich Credit Institutions). The neoclassical architecture depicted on the reverse—likely representing a government building—and the prominent imperial eagle with shield on the obverse reflect the institutional authority and classical symbolism favored by the Nazi regime during the final years of the war.

The obverse displays two circular portrait medallions positioned symmetrically on either side of the central text area. The left medallion features a male profile facing right; the right medallion shows a male profile facing left. Both are rendered in fine engraving style within ornate circular frames. The center presents the denomination 'Fünf Reichsmark' in prominent Gothic lettering, with the official issuing authority statement below. A large imperial eagle with heraldic shield dominates the lower center, embodying Nazi-era state symbolism. The reverse features a neoclassical building with columned portico and pediment enclosed within an elaborate circular ornamental frame, flanked by decorative shell or fan motifs. Fine geometric crosshatching and guilloche border patterns provide intricate background security elements throughout both sides. The color scheme of blue-black on brown and gray underprint is consistent with Reichskreditkasse currency standards.

OBVERSE: 'Fünf Reichsmark' (Five Reichsmark) — main denomination text in Gothic script. 'Ausgegeben auf Grund der Verordnung über Reichskreditkassen Hauptverwaltung der Reichskreditkassen' (Issued on the basis of the Regulation on Reich Credit Institutions, Main Administration of the Reich Credit Institutions) — issuing authority statement. Serial number: B 1 1 9 1 9 2 8 0 (8-digit red serial number). REVERSE: 'Grundmünzkraft' (Base coin value/currency authority) and additional vertical margin text (partially unclear in available images).

Intaglio engraving (steel or copper plate engraving), which is evidenced by the fine line work, detailed crosshatching patterns, precise portrait rendering, and the characteristic depth of impression typical of high-security currency production. The notes were printed by German state security printers during the Nazi period; the Reichskreditkasse notes typically used facilities under government control.

Pick P-R138b designation indicates this is a known variety of the Reichskreditkasse 5 Reichsmark. The 'b' suffix typically denotes a variant within the series, possibly related to signature varieties, printer variants, or minor design changes. The observed 8-digit red serial number without embossed stamp is consistent with the catalog description for this variety. Serial number prefix 'B' may indicate a specific printing series or regional issue batch.