Coin Identifier
1 Deutsche Mark (West Germany) — obverse
Obverse
1 Deutsche Mark (West Germany) — reverse
Reverse
1 Deutsche Mark

1 Deutsche Mark (West Germany)

Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) · 1973

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

Country
Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany)
Year
1973
Denomination
1 Deutsche Mark
Metal
Copper-Nickel clad Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel exterior; pure Nickel core)

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Overview

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

Historical significance

The Deutsche Mark was the official currency of West Germany (and later unified Germany) from 1948 until the introduction of the Euro in 2002. It was a symbol of German economic stability after WWII.

Obverse (front)

The German Federal Eagle (Bundesadler), the official symbol of the state, surrounded by the legend 'BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND' and the mint mark 'J' at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

The numeral '1' flanked by two oak leaf sprigs. Above it is the text 'DEUTSCHE MARK' and the year '1973' is located at the bottom.

Estimated value

$0.50 - $2.00 in circulated condition; $5 - $10 in high uncirculated grades. Primarily holds exchange value at the Bundesbank.

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade is the primary factor. While 1973 is a common year, some specific mint marks from the 1950s (like 1954-G) are significantly more valuable.

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF) - Shows consistent wear across the eagle's feathers and the denomination, but all legends are clear.

Mintage & rarity

Common; 67,617,000 minted in 1973-J. Over 2 billion minted across the entire series life.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for the distinct arabesque edge design and magnet response (the nickel core makes it magnetic). Weight should be exactly 5.5g.

Notable varieties & errors

None widely recognized for the 1973-J date; collectors mostly look for mint state specimens.

Similar coins

Often confused with the East German Mark, which featured a hammer and compass design rather than the federal eagle.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprint oils. Store in a PVC-free holder. Do not clean or polish, as this reduces numismatic value.