100 Deutsche Mark

The P#41 100 Mark belongs to the BBk IIIa series — the last generation of Deutsche Mark notes before the Bundesbank began planning for euro convergence. Three signature combinations exist across the issue period, with the Tietmeyer/Gaddum pairing being the shortest-lived and consequently the least common in circulated grades. Schlesinger held the presidency across both of the earlier pairings, an unusual continuity that reflects the long transition period between Pöhl's abrupt resignation in 1991 — itself a protest against the terms of German monetary union — and Tietmeyer's formal appointment.

Pöhl's departure over the 1:1 East/West mark conversion rate gives the 02.01.1989-dated notes an ironic footnote: his signature appears on a note whose policy consequences he publicly repudiated.