1946 Hungary 100,000,000 B-Pengo Banknote PMG 66 EPQ Pick 136 Hyperinflation Rarity

1946 Hungary 100,000,000 B-Pengo Banknote PMG 66 EPQ Pick 136 Hyperinflation Rarity

Description

This remarkable 100,000,000 B-Pengő banknote, issued in 1946 by the Magyar Nemzeti Bank, represents one of the most dramatic monetary periods in world history. Certified PMG 66 EPQ (Gem Uncirculated), it stands as an exceptional survivor of Hungary’s catastrophic post-World War II hyperinflation—the most severe ever recorded before the Zimbabwean crisis of the 2000s.

Authenticity & Cataloging

This note is cataloged as Pick #136, part of the high-denomination “B-Pengő” series introduced as inflation accelerated beyond the capabilities of the standard pengő. The “B” denomination system was designed to absorb zeros quickly and maintain some measure of accounting coherence as prices doubled every 15 hours.

Historical Significance

By mid-1946, Hungary’s currency was in freefall. The 100,000,000 B-Pengő—already staggering—was only a mid-range denomination; within weeks, values would climb into the trillions as the pengő collapsed entirely. These notes serve as powerful artifacts of economic instability, offering collectors a tangible link to the world’s most explosive inflationary episode.

Design & Features

The obverse features a finely engraved portrait of a young Hungarian woman in traditional attire, emblematic of national identity amid crisis. Elaborate guilloche patterns and “B” denomination medallions further enhance the note’s artistry.

On the reverse, the majestic Hungarian Parliament building spans the center, executed in crisp blue intaglio. Detailed flourishes on all borders frame the national landmark, underscoring the high-quality engraving typical of late-pengő issues despite the economic collapse.

Remarkable Denomination

The 100 million B-Pengő value corresponds to 100 million trillion pengő (10¹⁴ pengő) in the pre-B system—an astounding figure that vividly illustrates the currency’s rapid devaluation.

Collector’s Value

Hyperinflation notes of Hungary remain a core category for collectors, and high-grade PMG-certified examples like this are especially desirable. With its Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ designation, historical weight, and bold blue artwork, this note is a standout addition to any advanced inflation-era or world-currency collection.