A German States 10 Mark (Gold) contains 0.1152 troy oz of pure gold, worth $460.56 at today's spot price.
The 10 mark was the German Empire's half-value gold coin, struck from 1872 to 1913 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, 2:29 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Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.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 | 1872–1913 |
|---|---|
| Face value | 10 Mark |
| Composition | 90% gold |
| Gross weight | 3.982 g |
| Fineness | .900 (90%) |
| Pure metal | 0.1152 troy oz (3.584 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.
-
3.982 g × .900 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.1152 troy oz
0.1152 troy oz × $3,996.90 spot = $460.56
How to identify it
- The reverse is the same on every coin: a crowned imperial eagle with DEUTSCHES REICH, the date and 10 MARK.
- The obverse shows the ruler of the issuing state, such as 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.
- It is half the size of the 20 mark and easy to confuse with it in photos; check the value on the reverse.
Melt value vs. collector value
Common Prussia and Hamburg dates usually sell a little above melt. Coins from small states, scarce years and low-mintage mints can carry large premiums. Counterfeits exist, so check weight and size.