Obverse

Reverse

1 Deutsche Mark

1 Deutsche Mark (West Germany)

West Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) · 1972

A standard circulation coin from West Germany featuring the Federal Eagle on the obverse and the denomination with oak leaves on the reverse.

Country: West Germany (Federal Republic of Germany)
Year: 1972
Denomination: 1 Deutsche Mark
Metal: Cupronickel (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 west germany (federal republic of germany) coins →

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Overview

A standard circulation coin from West Germany featuring the Federal Eagle on the obverse and the denomination with oak leaves on the reverse.

Historical significance

The Deutsche Mark was the official currency of West Germany from 1948 until the introduction of the Euro. The 1972 issue is significant as it coincides with West Germany hosting the Summer Olympics in Munich, although this is a standard circulation piece.

Obverse (front)

Features the Federal Eagle (Bundesadler), the national symbol of Germany, with the legend 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the mint mark 'J' at the bottom center.

Reverse (back)

Shows the numeral '1' flanked by two oak leaves, with the text 'DEUTSCHE MARK' and the date '1972' below.

Estimated value

$0.50 - $1.50 in circulated condition; $5.00 - $10.00 in Mint State (UNC)

What drives this coin's value

Condition (grade), mint mark rarity, and presence of original mint luster. 1972-J is a very common date/mint combination.

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF) - Visible circulation wear and surface scratches, but all major details and lettering remain sharp.

Mintage & rarity

26,456,862 (Common)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits of this specific common date are very rare; verify by checking the edge ornamentation and the weight of 5.5 grams.

Notable varieties & errors

There are few notable varieties for the 1972-J, though some collectors look for slight die rotations or doubling.

Similar coins

Often confused with the East German 1 Mark coin, which is made of lighter aluminum, or later Euro coinage of similar diameter.

Care & preservation

Store in a PVC-free flip or archival-safe coin holder. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it removes the original surface luster and lowers collector value.

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Overview

Historical significance

Obverse (front)

Reverse (back)

Estimated value

What drives this coin's value

Grade assessment

Mintage & rarity

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Notable varieties & errors

Similar coins

Care & preservation

Other west germany (federal republic of germany) coins

Learn about 1 Deutsche Mark (West Germany) in the encyclopedia