1923 Germany 500 Millionen Mark Banknote (500 Million) P-110 Weimar Hyperinflation Era

1923 Germany 500 Millionen Mark Banknote (500 Million) P-110 Weimar Hyperinflation Era

This 1923 German 500 Millionen Mark banknote, cataloged as Pick #110, is a dramatic and authentic artifact from the peak of the Weimar Republic’s hyperinflation crisis. Issued on 1 September 1923, this note represents a period when paper money became nearly worthless within days—or even hours—of being printed.

Despite its staggering face value of 500,000,000 Marks (500 million), the note could barely buy a loaf of bread by the time it entered circulation. The obverse features classic Gothic typography, with “Fünfhundert Millionen Mark” prominently displayed across the center, surrounded by intricate border patterns. The Reichsbank’s official seals and printed signatures authenticate the note, alongside a green serial number for traceability.

On the reverse, the note is largely blank, typical of emergency hyperinflation issues where speed of printing took priority over design. These notes were printed in vast quantities on low-quality paper, with basic security features, as the Reichsbank raced to supply the public with denominations that could keep up with hourly price increases.

As Pick #110, this note is a quintessential example of hyperinflationary currency—a physical embodiment of economic collapse and monetary excess.

Collector's Value:

This 500 Millionen Mark banknote is a powerful addition to any collection focused on economic history, hyperinflation, or German banknotes. Its absurd denomination, issued in a time of national panic, serves as a sobering reminder of unchecked inflation. A rare and educational piece that encapsulates one of the most extreme moments in financial history.