A German States 20 Mark (Gold) contains 0.2305 troy oz of pure gold, worth $921.15 at today's spot price.
The 20 mark was the main gold coin of the German Empire, struck from 1871 to 1915 to a 90% gold standard. Each state issued its own coins with a shared reverse.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Gold $3,996.90 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 24, 1:20 AM EDT
Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.
Melt value is the metal content at spot price, not a buy or sell price. Collectible coins can be worth much more. For reference only.
Specifications
| Years | 1871–1915 |
|---|---|
| Face value | 20 Mark |
| Composition | 90% gold |
| Gross weight | 7.965 g |
| Fineness | .900 (90%) |
| Pure metal | 0.2305 troy oz (7.168 g) |
How the melt value is worked out
Melt value is the pure gold in the coin multiplied by the spot price. We use the coin's standard minted weight; worn coins weigh slightly less.
-
7.965 g × .900 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.2305 troy oz
0.2305 troy oz × $3,996.90 spot = $921.15
How to identify it
- The reverse is the same on every coin: a crowned imperial eagle with DEUTSCHES REICH, the date and 20 MARK.
- The obverse shows the ruler of the issuing state, such as Wilhelm I or Wilhelm II of Prussia. Hamburg, Bremen and Lubeck show their city arms instead.
- A mint letter, usually below the portrait, shows the mint: A Berlin, B Hannover, C Frankfurt, D Munich, E Dresden/Muldenhutten, F Stuttgart, G Karlsruhe, H Darmstadt, J Hamburg.
- Prussia's last type, from 1913 to 1915, shows Wilhelm II in uniform.
Melt value vs. collector value
Common Prussia and Hamburg coins usually trade a little above melt. Coins from small states, rare years and low-mintage mints can be worth many times their gold value. Fakes of these coins are common, so check weight and size.