German Empire Silver Coin Value 

German Empire flag

Silver coins were in regular circulation in German Empire. The values below represent the intrinsic value of silver coins from German Empire.

German Empire silver coins that are in uncirculated condition, or that may be rare and collectible may also have numismatic value. You can use this table as a guide when buying and selling circulated silver coins from German Empire.

The melt values are calculated and displayed in USD based on the today's silver spot price of $32.29 per troy ounce.

 
 
Denomination / Currency Years Minted Fineness Gross Weight (g) ASW (g) ASW (oz t) Melt Value
50 Pfennig 1896- 1903 .900 2.78 2.50 .0804 $2.60
1/2 Mark 1905- 1919 .900 2.78 2.50 .0804 $2.60
1 Mark 1891- 1916 .900 5.56 5.00 .1609 $5.20

German Empire Silver Coins

The history of silver coins in the German Empire is a fascinating journey through monetary evolution, political unification, and economic strategy. 

Pre-Unification Period (Before 1871)

Before the unification of Germany in 1871, the region was fragmented into numerous independent states, each issuing its own currency.

These included principalities, duchies, kingdoms, and free cities. Silver coins, such as thalers, florins, and marks, were common but varied significantly in weight, design, and value.

German Empire (1871-1918)

The unification of Germany in 1871 under Emperor Wilhelm I and Chancellor Otto von Bismarck led to the establishment of a standardized monetary system. This period marks the formal beginning of the German Empire's silver coinage.

The Coinage Act of 1871 standardized the German currency, introducing the Goldmark as the official currency. However, silver coins remained an important part of everyday transactions.

Silver coins were issued in various denominations, including 1/2 Mark, 1 Mark, 2 Marks, 3 Marks, and 5 Marks. 

  • Obverse: Typically featured the portrait of the reigning Kaiser (Emperor) or the coat of arms of the German Empire.
  • Reverse: Often displayed the denomination, the Imperial Eagle, and other national symbols.

Metal Content 

  • 1 Mark and 2 Mark coins: 90% silver, 10% copper.
  • 5 Mark coins: Also 90% silver, these coins were larger and heavier.

Various commemorative silver coins were issued to mark significant events, such as anniversaries, historical figures, and cultural milestones.

World War I and Aftermath (1914-1918)

World War I had a significant impact on the German economy and its currency:

  • Silver Shortages: The war effort caused silver shortages, leading to a reduction in the minting of silver coins.
  • Debasement: As the war progressed, the silver content of coins was reduced to conserve the precious metal.

Weimar Republic (1919-1933)

After the fall of the German Empire in 1918, the Weimar Republic continued to issue silver coins, but economic instability and hyperinflation during the early 1920s severely affected their value and usage.

Legacy Silver coins from the German Empire era remain popular among collectors due to their historical significance, intricate designs, and the pivotal period they represent in German and European history.

Use this guide to determine the melt value of German Empire silver coins.