Catalog
Why register? Just to keep bots out of our catalog. Your email stays private - we will never share it or send you anything uninvited. We guarantee you that!
| Issuer | German Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 1873 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | 7.965 g |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
| Shape | Log in to see details |
| Technique | Log in to see details |
| Orientation | Log in to see details |
| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
| Reference(s) | Log in to see details |
| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | DEUTSCHES REICH 20 M 1873 |
| Reverse description | Log in to see details |
| Reverse script | Log in to see details |
| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Log in to see details |
| Mintage | Log in to see details |
| Additional information |
The German Empire's gold 20 Mark coinage was introduced under the currency unification of 1871–73, when Bismarck's government standardized the patchwork of state currencies into a single imperial system. This silver pattern — struck to the weight and dimensions of the gold production type but in .900 silver — was almost certainly a presentation or approval piece produced during the design finalization process, before the gold standard issue was confirmed for circulation.
Pattern pieces of this transitional moment are exceptionally rare; most were retained by mint officials or presented to state authorities rather than released.