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Several German Empire 2 Mark coins were acquired at the numismatic fair in Valencia on November 16. One of the finds was a 1902 commemorative coin issued to honor the 50th anniversary of the reign of Friedrich I.
| Region | Approximate Price |
| Spain | 60-70 euros |
| Germany | 35-50 euros |
Several German Empire 2 Mark coins were acquired at the numismatic fair in Valencia on November 16. One of the finds was a 1902 commemorative coin issued to honor the 50th anniversary of the reign of Friedrich I.
This coin from Baden is of nice quality with full mint luster. Such high-quality specimens are rarely found in Spain, despite the general popularity of German numismatics in Europe. High-grade German coins very seldom reach the Spanish market.
Due to their rarity, the price for such specimens in Spain is higher than in Germany. A price comparison shows this difference.
Another interesting find was a 1901 two-mark coin from Prussia. This specimen commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Kingdom of Prussia. The coin has a beautiful mint luster, although its condition is not perfect and shows signs of cleaning.
Despite this, it holds collectible interest. The price for such coins also varies depending on the place of sale. In Spain, they usually cost more than in Germany, where they can be found for an average of 5-10 euros cheaper.
The average price in Spain for similar specimens is about 35 euros. At the same time, in Germany, their cost ranges from 25-30 euros. However, coins in exceptional condition can sell in Spain for as much as 40-45 euros.
When buying coins with mint luster, it is extremely important to inspect them carefully. Sometimes, the luster can hide signs of cleaning, such as fine scratches ('hairlines'). Such defects may not be visible under certain lighting angles, so it is recommended to use a magnifying glass.
The presence of cleaning marks significantly reduces a coin's collectible and investment value. A specimen with such damage will not be able to be slabbed (certified) and receive a high grade, which directly affects its future value and liquidity.
For Spanish collectors, condition is particularly important. They prefer to either buy coins in perfect, 'premium' quality or not buy them at all if they are common issues.
Among the purchases was also a coin from Bavaria — a 2 Mark from 1911. The obverse depicts Luitpold, the Prince Regent. This specimen is also in good condition.
The cost of such Bavarian coins in Spain is usually in the range of 55-65 euros. At major numismatic fairs in Germany, they can be purchased for less, priced from 35 to 40 euros.
The coin has a mint mark letter. On German coins of that period, the minting location was indicated by a special letter.
The last notable coin was a 1913 Prussian two-mark coin. In collector circles, it is known by the unofficial names 'The King Called' or 'The Crowd'. This issue was dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Prussia's entry into the war against Napoleon Bonaparte.
The coin's mintage was 1.5 million pieces. One of its features is a modified reverse design. Unlike standard coins with the large imperial eagle, this issue depicts a small eagle soaring above a snake.
In Spain, the price for such coins in good condition is about 35 euros. Worn specimens are not in demand and sell for significantly less, around 20-25 euros, as local collectors prefer specimens with mint luster.
| Coin Type | Image on the Reverse |
| Standard (before 1913) | Large imperial eagle with a coat of arms |
| Commemorative (1913, Prussia) | Small eagle soaring above a snake |
German Empire 2 Mark coins had several reverse design variations. The standard image was a large imperial eagle with a coat of arms shield on its chest, surrounded by the inscription 'DEUTSCHES REICH' and the year of mintage.
However, some commemorative issues, such as the 1913 coin dedicated to the centenary of the war with Napoleon, had a special design. They depicted a small eagle fighting a snake.
This distinction makes the commemorative issues easily recognizable and adds interest to collecting them. A comparison of the two reverse types clearly demonstrates this difference.
