1922 Germany 1000 Mark Yellow Paper P-76b PCGS VF30 Reichsbanknote Weimar Hyperinflation Note

1922 Germany 1000 Mark Yellow Paper P-76b PCGS VF30 Reichsbanknote Weimar Hyperinflation Note

Presented here is a 1922 German Reichsbanknote for 1000 Mark, cataloged as Pick #76b, graded PCGS Very Fine 30. Issued during the Third Series of Weimar Republic currency, this note reflects a critical moment in Germany’s post-World War I economic turmoil—a prelude to the extreme hyperinflation that would peak just one year later in 1923.

This variety is printed on distinct yellow-hued paper and features the Thorns watermark (Type I), both typical of emergency efforts to produce massive quantities of notes under increasingly desperate monetary conditions. The note bears serial number Wf✳260013 and was printed on Plate PG.

Obverse Details:

• Bold black text features the denomination "Tausend Mark" (One Thousand Marks).

• To the left, a large ornate “1000” denomination sits within a geometric cartouche.

• Below, a formal declaration from the Reichsbank pledges redemption of this note through January 1923.

• Dated September 15, 1922, with printed signatures of Reichsbank directors.

• Red serial number and prefix “Wf✳” appear in the upper left, adding visual contrast and variant significance.

• Printed on yellow-toned paper with a fine decorative border in green ink.

Reverse Details:

• An elaborate green ornamental pattern fills the back, centered by the large numerical value 1000 in mirrored symmetry.

• Classic symmetrical flourishes and guilloche patterns frame the design, acting both as a deterrent to counterfeiting and an aesthetic element.

• The note features the "Thorns" watermark, visible under light, which helped authenticate notes during this unstable financial period.

Historical Significance:

By late 1922, Germany’s financial system was crumbling under the weight of war reparations, internal instability, and the collapse of public trust in currency. Though this 1000 Mark note once held meaningful value, it was quickly rendered nearly worthless in the coming months as prices spiraled out of control. The issuance of such high-denomination notes foreshadowed the issuance of billion- and trillion-mark notes in 1923.

Despite its large face value, this note now serves as a tangible artifact from a nation caught in one of history's most catastrophic monetary collapses—highlighting the fragility of fiat money and the consequences of political-economic disarray.

Collector’s Value:

This PCGS-graded VF30 note with vibrant yellow paper and thorn watermark makes for an excellent mid-grade representation of Weimar hyperinflation-era currency. It stands as both a visual and historical cornerstone for collectors focused on German economic history, emergency money, or early 20th-century fiscal crises. A must-have for those building a denomination-set from the Weimar inflation years.