Overview
This is an original 500 Mark government bond issued by the Kingdom of Prussia during the height of the German Empire's industrial expansion.
Preliminary identification
Royal Prussian 4% Consolidated State Loan Bond, 1882
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
In April 1882, Berlin was the epicenter of a rising global superpower, and this document was a literal brick in the foundation of that empire.
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' (brown age spots) and water staining along the top and left edges. There is visible wear and minor tearing at the margins, and the paper appears somewhat brittle. These condition issues reduce the value by approximately 40-50% compared to a pristine, 'uncirculated' specimen.
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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 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD