Preliminary identification

Royal Prussian 4% Consolidated State Bond, 1882

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a 500 Mark government bond issued by the Kingdom of Prussia, featuring the ornate heraldry and security printing of the Imperial era.

Story

Berlin was the pulsing heart of a newly unified German Empire in 1882, and the Prussian state was the engine driving its massive industrial and military expansion.

Maker / Origin

The bond was issued by the 'Königlich Hauptverwaltung der Staatsschulden' (Royal Main Administration of State Debts).

Condition & Value

The document shows significant foxing and water staining, particularly along the left edge and center, which is common for paper of this age. There is some minor fraying at the margins, but the central graphics and the embossed seal remain clear.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD