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The Germany 5 Reichsmark coin issued between 1935 and 1936, featuring a portrait of Paul von Hindenburg, holds significant historical and numismatic value. Struck during the early years of Nazi Germany, this coin commemorates the influential figure of Paul von Hindenburg, a German Field Marshal during World War I, and later the President of the Weimar Republic. His role in the interwar period, particularly his appointment of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor in 1933, makes this coin a crucial piece for understanding the political history of the time. The 5 Reichsmark coin not only serves as a piece of currency but also represents the complex relationship between Germany’s military past, political figures, and the rise of the Nazi regime. It remains an important artifact for numismatists and historians alike, due to its ties to a critical moment in the country's history.
The history of the 5 Reichsmark coin from 1935-1936 is deeply entwined with the political landscape of the early Nazi era. In 1933, Hindenburg appointed Adolf Hitler as Chancellor, a move that led to the establishment of a totalitarian regime in Germany. Hindenburg, despite being the symbolic head of state, was largely a figurehead as Hitler began consolidating power. The issuance of this coin, which features Hindenburg's portrait, reflects both his continued prominence in the national consciousness and the state’s efforts to legitimize Hitler’s regime through associations with respected historical figures. After Hindenburg's death in 1934, the Nazi regime sought to reinforce its control by using Hindenburg’s legacy, and coins like the 5 Reichsmark became symbols of the continuity of the German state, even as the political system underwent drastic changes.
The design of the 5 Reichsmark coin from 1935-1936 is a striking representation of Hindenburg’s image. On the obverse, the coin features a portrait of Paul von Hindenburg, facing left. The design captures his dignified expression, with strong lines and a prominent military uniform, reflecting his status as a national hero and military leader. His imposing image conveys a sense of strength and authority, key qualities that were emphasized by the Nazi regime. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription “Paul von Hindenburg,” along with the year of issue, which is either 1935 or 1936 depending on the specific mintage. The obverse design conveys both respect for the former president and the regime's desire to associate itself with past military glory and leadership.
On the reverse side of the 5 Reichsmark coin, the design features an eagle, a symbol closely associated with the German Reich and the Nazi regime. The eagle is depicted in a traditional heraldic style, standing on a swastika, which was the emblem of the Nazi Party. This reverse design emphasizes the Nazi regime's efforts to reassert national power through the revival of national symbols. The coin's inscription on the reverse reads “DEUTSCHES REICH” (German Empire), affirming its status as official currency. The swastika in the center, with the eagle holding it, connects the imagery directly to the Nazi state, making the coin not only a financial instrument but also a political tool, reinforcing the regime's control over Germany and its historical narrative. The reverse design is striking in its simplicity and power, further solidifying the coin's role as a piece of state-sponsored propaganda.
Minted in Berlin and other mints across Germany, the 5 Reichsmark coin was struck in .900 fine silver, providing it with intrinsic value while also enhancing its desirability among collectors. The silver content gives the coin weight and durability, making it a valuable piece for both everyday transactions and as a store of wealth. The 5 Reichsmark was one of the standard denominations issued by the German government and circulated widely, allowing it to play a prominent role in the economy. The size and weight of the coin, measuring 29 mm in diameter and weighing 15 grams, made it a practical coin for both public use and for collectors. Its silver content also ensures that it retains value beyond its face value, especially in higher-quality conditions.
The mintage of the Germany 5 Reichsmark coin from 1935-1936 was substantial, with millions of coins struck during these years. However, despite the relatively high mintage, the 5 Reichsmark coins from this period are highly collectible, especially those that remain in good condition. Coins produced in these years were circulated as part of everyday transactions, leading to wear and tear over time. However, examples of the 5 Reichsmark coin in higher grades, such as Almost Uncirculated (AU) or Uncirculated (UNC), are more scarce and valuable, as they have been preserved in better condition and retain much of their original detail and luster. These well-preserved coins are highly sought after by collectors due to the rarity of such pieces and the historical importance of the Hindenburg design.
The condition of the 5 Reichsmark coin plays a significant role in determining its value in the numismatic market. Coins in higher grades, such as AU or UNC, show little to no wear, and the design elements are sharp and well-defined. These coins are often found in protective holders or cases to maintain their pristine condition, making them especially attractive to collectors. In contrast, coins in lower grades, such as Very Fine (VF) or Fine (F), may exhibit wear, with softened details and a lack of original luster. Even in these grades, the historical and cultural significance of the coin ensures its continued appeal to collectors and investors. The 5 Reichsmark coin’s intrinsic value, historical associations, and enduring appeal make it a worthwhile addition to any collection of German numismatics, regardless of its grade.
Collectors are particularly interested in the 5 Reichsmark coin from 1935-1936 because of its direct connection to a pivotal period in German history. The portrait of Hindenburg, the eagle and swastika on the reverse, and the coin's minting during the Nazi regime make it a powerful symbol of the time. For numismatists interested in the history of Nazi Germany, the coin offers a tangible link to the period of Hitler’s rise to power and the state’s effort to co-opt revered figures from the past for propaganda purposes. The coin also plays a role in understanding the broader context of German coinage, as it was issued alongside other coins commemorating significant historical events and figures from the Empire and the Weimar Republic. As such, the 5 Reichsmark Hindenburg coin is a key piece for collectors interested in the numismatic history of this period.
In conclusion, the Germany 5 Reichsmark coin from 1935-1936 (KM86) is an important and historically significant piece of numismatic history. Struck in silver and featuring the portrait of Paul von Hindenburg on the obverse and a Nazi eagle and swastika on the reverse, the coin reflects the political atmosphere of the time. It serves not only as a functional piece of currency but also as a symbol of the Nazi regime’s efforts to align itself with Germany’s past military leaders and national symbols. Despite the large mintage, the coin remains highly collectible due to its design, historical associations, and silver content. Whether in AU, UNC, or lower grades, the 5 Reichsmark Hindenburg coin is a prized item for collectors of German and world numismatics, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in 20th-century history.