100 mark 1948
About This Note
This is a 100 Reichsmark banknote from the 1948 Soviet occupation zone reissue (Pick P-7a), presented in UNC condition. The note features a portrait of a male figure in formal attire within an ornate circular frame on the obverse, flanked by classical allegorical female figures on the reverse. The banknote exhibits excellent preservation with only light creasing consistent with age, fine intaglio engraving throughout, and vibrant blue-gray and cream coloring that showcases the original printing quality.
Common. The 100 Reichsmark denomination was widely circulated during its original issuance (1935) and subsequent Soviet occupation zone reissue (1948). Large print runs were necessary to meet currency demands during these periods. UNC examples are more desirable than circulated pieces but remain readily available in the collector market. No evidence of limited mintage or recall status for this Pick number.
This banknote represents a critical moment in German monetary history—the 1948 reissue by Soviet occupation authorities following World War II. The original design dates to the Reichsbank era (dated June 24, 1935), referencing the Banking Law of August 30, 1924, which established the post-Weimar Reichsmark. The reissuance in the Soviet occupation zone reflects the currency stabilization efforts following German economic collapse and the division of Germany into occupation zones.
The obverse features a formal male portrait in profile positioned within an ornate circular decorative frame on the right side of the note, representing a dignitary or historical figure significant to German banking. The reverse displays two classical allegorical female figures in flowing robes flanking a central circular ornamental frame, employing the classical artistic tradition common to pre-war German currency design. Both sides feature an Imperial German eagle with spread wings positioned at the lower right of the obverse. The design employs elaborate geometric borders, fine line work, and ornamental patterns throughout, with denomination numerals '100' prominently displayed in security boxes. The color scheme of blue-gray and cream tones provides excellent contrast for the intaglio printing.
Front Side: 'Reichsbanknote' (Reichsbank Note); 'Hundert Reichsmark' (One Hundred Reichsmark); 'Ausgegeben am Grunde des Bankgesetzes vom 30.August 1924' (Issued on the basis of the Banking Law of August 30, 1924); 'Berlin, den 24.Juni 1935' (Berlin, June 24, 1935); 'Reichsbankdirektorium' (Reichsbank Directorate); Serial number 'X·1499710' (in red). Reverse Side: 'Reichsbanknote' (Reichsbank Note); Serial number 'X·1499710' (in red); Denomination markings '100'; Fine print text at bottom regarding counterfeiting warnings (illegible in provided image).
Intaglio (copperplate engraving) printing on security paper. The fine line work, precise detail in the allegorical figures' drapery, complex geometric background patterns, and multiple color registration visible in the imagery are characteristic of high-security intaglio production. This banknote was produced by the Reichsbank's authorized security printer using traditional engraving methods standard for Reichsmark currency of this era.
This example is identified as Pick P-7a, representing the Soviet occupation zone reissue of 1948. The serial number observed is 'X·1499710' in red ink. Varieties for this issue may include different serial number prefixes and color variations of the serial number ink. The date inscription 'Berlin, den 24.Juni 1935' reflects the original Reichsbank printing date, preserved in the 1948 reissue plates. Collectors should note that the P-7a designation specifically indicates this is the occupation zone variety as opposed to earlier Reichsbank printings or other regional variants.
