1 Deutsche Mark (D-Mark)

Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) · 1989

A silver-colored circulation coin featuring the German federal eagle on one side and the denomination between two oak leaves on the other.

Country: Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany)
Year: 1989
Denomination: 1 Deutsche Mark
Metal: Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 3, 2026More federal republic of germany (west germany) coins →

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Overview

A silver-colored circulation coin featuring the German federal eagle on one side and the denomination between two oak leaves on the other.

Historical significance

The Deutsche Mark was the official currency of West Germany from 1948 and all of Germany from 1990 until the introduction of the Euro in 2002. It was a symbol of the West German 'Economic Miracle' and stability. 1989 is a particularly significant year as it marked the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Obverse (front)

The Federal Eagle (Bundesadler), the national symbol of Germany, surrounded by the legend 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the mint mark 'D' at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

The numeral '1' flanked by two oak leaves, with the text 'DEUTSCHE MARK' in the center and the year '1989' at the bottom.

Estimated value

$0.50 - $1.50 circulated; $3.00 - $8.00 in Uncirculated / Mint State condition.

What drives this coin's value

The primary value is derived from its exchange value (it is still exchangeable for Euros at the Bundesbank) and its condition. High-grade uncirculated examples and specific low-mintage years (like 1954 G or 1955 G) are more valuable.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU). The eagle's feathers show slight wear, and there are various surface scratches and minor toning/dirt, particularly on the obverse.

Mintage & rarity

Mintage of approximately 21,570,000 for the 'D' mint in 1989. This is a common date and not considered rare.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits are uncommon for this date, but check for clarity in the edge ornamentation and ensure the weight is close to 5.5 grams. Genuine coins should be non-magnetic.

Notable varieties & errors

No major varieties are recognized for the 1989 D issue; collectors focus primarily on finding pristine 'Mint State' examples.

Similar coins

Often confused with the Austrian 10 Schilling or earlier 1 DM coins. Distinguishable by the country name 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the specific eagle design.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges to avoid leaving fingerprints, which can cause oxidation. Do not clean or polish, as this removes the coin's original surface luster and significantly reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free holder or 'flip'.