Germany, Westphalia 5 Mark 1921 Notgeld / MS 64 (No Reserve Price)

1921 German Weimar Republic Westphalia Province Notgeld 5 Mark Aluminum Coin

Highlights:
1. German emergency money, with unique historical significance, serves as a precious historical witness.
2. The NGC MS64 grade signifies excellent condition with good luster and no significant wear, making it more desirable in the market.
3. Primarily issued in 1921, with a very limited mintage.


Coin Story:
This 1921 Westphalia 5 Mark aluminum coin is a Notgeld (emergency money) issued during the Weimar Republic era by the Landesbank der Provinz Westfalen in the Prussian province of Westphalia to address severe inflation and currency shortages after World War I. The design commemorates Freiherr vom Stein (1757-1831), a Prussian reformer hailed as "Germany's leader in difficult times," who led reforms that helped liberate Germany from Napoleonic rule.

As Notgeld, this coin witnesses Germany's economic crisis in the early 1920s, when paper money hyperinflated, prompting local authorities to issue metal substitutes. It serves as more than currency, embodying regional identity and hero worship, with vom Stein's image emphasizing reform and leadership. In collecting circles, it's often seen as a historical artifact from the Weimar period.

This coin not only reflects the economic turmoil of the time but also holds significant historical commemorative value, symbolizing resilience and reform in post-war Germany.