1 mark 1948
About This Note
This is a PMG 67 EPQ graded 1 Deutsche Mark banknote from the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), issued by the Deutsche Notenbank in 1948. The note features classical ornamental design with elaborate decorative borders, geometric cross-hatching security patterns, and prominent numerals '1' in decorative cartouches on both sides. The front displays excellent preservation with a bright, cream-colored background and sharp red serial number (BG-0219591), while the reverse shows near-pristine condition with minimal wear, making this an exceptionally well-preserved example of early post-war East German currency.
Common. The 1 Mark denomination from this 1948 issue was produced in substantial quantities for circulation in the German Democratic Republic and remains readily available in the philatelic market. While PMG 67 EPQ represents a high-grade example, the underlying note itself is not scarce. The Pick 9b catalog number is a well-documented, standard issue with no known rarity factors such as limited print runs, recall status, or short-lived issuing authority.
This note was issued in 1948 by the Deutsche Notenbank following the Soviet currency reform and the division of Germany, representing the monetary system of the nascent German Democratic Republic. The classical engraved design with heraldic elements reflects the formal, state-controlled nature of East German currency production. Issued in Berlin during the early Cold War period, this banknote represents a transitional moment in German monetary history between the Reichsmark and the eventual adoption of the Mark der Deutschen Notenbank.
The 1 Mark note features a classical symmetrical design typical of high-security currency production of the era. Both obverse and reverse are dominated by large ornamental numerals '1' enclosed in elaborate decorative cartouches featuring scrollwork and floral patterns. The design incorporates intricate geometric cross-hatching and fine-line engraving throughout to prevent counterfeiting. No portraits or specific landmarks are depicted; instead, the design relies entirely on abstract ornamental elements and heraldic symbols (including what appears to be a double-headed eagle in the decorative patterns) to convey state authority. The color scheme consists of dark brown and black inks on a light cream/beige paper stock.
FRONT SIDE: 'BANKNOTE' (Banknote); 'EINE DEUTSCHE MARK' (One German Mark); 'VON DER DEUTSCHEN NOTENBANK AUF GRUND IHRER SATZUNG AUSGEGEBEN' (Issued by the German Central Bank on the basis of its constitution); 'BERLIN 1948' (Berlin 1948); 'MARK' (Mark); Serial number 'BG-0219591'. BACK SIDE: 'BANKNOTE' (Banknote); 'DEUTSCHE MARK' (German Mark) - appears twice on reverse.
Intaglio engraving (copperplate/steel plate printing), the standard method for high-security currency production of this period. The fine cross-hatching patterns, complex geometric designs, and sharp line work visible in the images are characteristic of intaglio printing. The consistent, crisp impression and security pattern detail suggest professional currency printing, likely by a specialized state security printer. The red serial number appears to have been applied separately via letterpress or lithographic printing.
The observed note carries the serial number prefix 'BG', consistent with Deutsche Notenbank 1948 issues. No significant varieties are noted beyond standard serial number variations. The 1948 Berlin printing is the standard issue for Pick 9b; no known major varieties (signature varieties, overprints, or printing location variations) are documented for this catalog number.
