Prussian Mint — Prussian gold coins with the A mint mark

The Prussian Mint — the Berlin letter "A"

The royal mint in Berlin struck the coins of Prussia from the 18th century, and after the unification of Germany in 1871 each mint received an identifying letter — Berlin was given "A", and it is this mark that appears on most of the gold marks in circulation on the market today. Prussia, as the largest state of the Empire, also struck more gold than any other federal state.

The gold 20 marks — German circulating gold

After unification Germany moved to the gold standard, and the basic gold coin became the 20 mark piece: 7.965 g at 900 fineness, that is about 7.17 g of pure gold — almost exactly the same as the British sovereign (7.32 g). Prussian issues carry the portraits of three emperors: Wilhelm I, Friedrich III (who reigned just 99 days in 1888 — the "year of three emperors") and Wilhelm II. Smaller 10 mark coins were also struck, with half that gold content.

The coins were real circulating money struck in their millions, which is why their premium over metal value is among the lowest of all historic gold, and natural traces of circulation do not affect the metal content.

The range at GoldInvest24

Prussian coins are in the historic gold coins category. Every piece is checked for weight, dimensions and authenticity. We also run a gold and silver buy-back.

FAQ — the Prussian Mint

What is the Prussian Mint?

The royal mint in Berlin, which struck the coins of the Kingdom of Prussia and, after 1871, was the principal mint of the German Empire, marked with the letter "A". Most German gold marks on the market today come from it.

How much gold does a Prussian 20 marks contain?

7.965 g at 900 fineness, that is about 7.17 g of pure gold — almost exactly the same as the British sovereign. Smaller 10 mark coins hold half that amount.

What does the letter "A" on a coin mean?

It is the mint mark of Berlin. After German unification in 1871 each mint of the Empire received an identifying letter, and Berlin was given "A".

Do traces of circulation reduce the value of Prussian marks?

No. For coins priced by metal content, the amount of pure gold is set by the issuing standard, not by the state of the surface. Only mechanical damage matters, for example solder marks left by jewellery mounts.

Where can I buy Prussian coins?

From a specialist precious metals dealer. At GoldInvest24 you will find Prussian gold 20 marks with insured shipping and discreet packaging; every piece is checked for weight, dimensions and authenticity.