This notgeld represents the 2nd note of 4-piece set, issued by the city of Schwabach. Like many early Notgeld issued during and after the Great War (1914-1918), it's overall design is relatively simple. Considering the fact this Notgeld was issued during the German Revolution (1918-1919). The chaotic situation most certainly played a role. In the design choices made during it's production.
Notably all notes of the series used the same art work, with different color schemes. Which shows some desire for variety, despite the dire post-war situation. Although it was simple embellishments such as this, that laid the groundwork for later designs.
Which itself became an expression, to move past pure efficiency. Growing into the diverse cultural trends. Seen in the later more extravagant Notgeld of the 1920s.
Observe
The note's observe is fairly simple with minor embellishments. With it's "50 Pfennig" value located on the note's header. This header is flanked by the 1480 (left) and 1804 (right) city coat of arms. These twin coat of arms have great historical significance.
The 1480 coat of arms, was award by Elector of Brandenburg Albrecht von Brandenburg (1414-1486), of House Hohenzollern. While 1808 pattern was adopted when Schwabach was incorporated into the Kingdom of Bavaria. It features Bavarian diamonds and Palatine Lion, inplace of the original Burgrave Lion. The crossed beer scoops (lower right panel), remain in the 1808 design.
Moving toward the center text declaring the nots as voucher, from the City of Schwabach. Followed by an issue date of "15 December 1918", 1 month after the Great War's end. The signatures of the city's Mayor (left), Chairman (center), and City Treasurer (right) can be seen below.
A silhouette of the city skyline can seen in the background. The building 2nd to the right, appears to be the tower of the Church of St. John and St. Martin. Located nearby Schwabach's historic marketplatz (market square), home to some of the city's oldest buildings.
All is surrounded by an ornate frame, which features a large number "50" at its lower center.
Further below the note's artist is listed as Millizer of Schwabach.
Translation
50 Pfennig
Voucher of the city of Schwabach.
Schwabach, the 15th December 1918
(Signatures)
Mayor, Chairman, City Treasurer
Reverse
The reverse features a relatively simple illustration of Schwabach's historic market square. Dispite its simplicity, this illustration symbolizes great historic value. The building to the left is Schwalbach's original town hall, noted for it's gold leaf roof. Since at least 1572, Schwalbach has been renown for its gold leaf art.
The Church of St. John and St. Martin can be seen behind the town hall. The church is a 15th century Gothic parish dedicated to John the Baptist and Saint Martin of Tours (316-397). Saint Martin is noted for being the patron saint of Schwalbach. In addition to being venerated by the Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican churches.
The monument to the far right, is the famous Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain). The 14th century fountain was commissioned as a representation of the Holy Roman Empire (962-1806). In the form of
40 figures, spilt into the divine numbers of 4 and 7. Represent a mixture of evangel, regal and philosophic concepts. The fountain's design was inspired by the spires of Gothic cathedrals. It's said that spinning the 2 brass rings, located on the fountain's gate bring good luck.
Venture outside the illustration, one can notice 4 number "50"s at its corners. Symbolizing the note's before mentioned "50 Pfennig" value. The numbers are slightly stylized and rests on a light green underprint. This underprint is briefly broken by a frame, similar to the observe's.
Notably this example features light stains and offset art. This level of haphazardness was not uncommon for the era. Being even featured on the later Notgeld of the 1920s. At the lower right is the note's serial number with batch letter, "Nr 34969 A". The letters "Nr" simply meaning nummer (number).
Additional Notes
This note's dimensions are 101 x 76 mm or 3.98 x 2.99 in.
댓글