Austria 20 Heller 1920 Enns Notgeld Banknote

Step back into the turbulent years following the First World War with this authentic 1920 Austrian 20 Heller Notgeld issued by the historic city of Enns in Upper Austria. More than just a banknote, this small emergency currency note tells the story of communities adapting to economic uncertainty during one of Europe's most transformative periods.

Issued for only a short time and redeemable until December 31, 1920, this charming local note features the municipal coat of arms of Enns and an elegant depiction of the city's famous clock tower. Today, it stands as a fascinating relic of Austria's post-war recovery and a highly collectible piece of regional monetary history.

Perfect for collectors of Austrian banknotes, Notgeld issues, emergency currencies, local history, and early 20th-century European numismatics.

History & Significance

Following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, Austria faced severe economic disruption, inflation, and shortages of circulating coinage. To address the lack of small change, municipalities across Austria were authorized to issue temporary emergency money known as Notgeld ("necessity money" or "emergency currency").

The city of Enns, one of Austria's oldest cities, issued this 20 Heller note in 1920 as part of its local emergency currency program. These notes circulated within the region and carried an expiration date, after which they could no longer be redeemed. The note specifically states that it was redeemable until 31 December 1920, reflecting its temporary role during a period of economic instability.

Today, Austrian Notgeld notes are prized by collectors for their local artwork, historical significance, and connection to the difficult economic conditions of post-World War I Europe.

Features

• Country: Austria
• Region: Upper Austria
• Issuing Authority: City of Enns (Stadtgemeinde Enns)
  
• Year: 1920
• Type: Local Banknote (Notgeld / Emergency Currency)
• Currency: Austrian Krone (1918–1921)
• Material: Paper
  
• Catalog Reference: Jaksch/Pick JPR0174Ia-20
• Numista Reference: N#209465
• Demonetized: 31 December 1920
• Authentic original Austrian emergency banknote

Design Details

Obverse

• Municipal coat of arms of Enns prominently displayed in the center
• Large blue "20" denomination numerals on both sides
• Decorative ornamental border design
• Official redemption notice stating validity through December 31, 1920
• Anti-counterfeiting warning printed along the lower margin

Reverse

• Beautiful illustration of the famous Enns City Tower (Stadtturm), one of the city's best-known landmarks
• Gothic-style lettering and traditional Austrian typography
• Municipal guarantee text issued by the City of Enns
• Mayor's facsimile signature
• Elegant blue and brown printing characteristic of Austrian Notgeld issues

Condition

Very Fine (VF) Condition

This banknote remains in attractive Very Fine condition with clear details, strong printed design elements, and complete borders. Signs of circulation may include light folds, minor handling wear, and age-related toning consistent with a note over 100 years old.

The historic artwork, text, and municipal details remain well preserved, making this an appealing collector-grade example of Austrian emergency currency.

Please examine the photographs carefully to assess the note's exact condition.

Why Collect Austrian Notgeld?

• Authentic post-World War I emergency currency
• Issued by a historic Austrian municipality
• Features local architecture and civic symbolism
• Over 100 years old
• Excellent addition to Austrian, European, and Notgeld collections
• Unique gift for history enthusiasts and numismatists

A charming and historic piece of Austrian monetary history, this 1920 Enns 20 Heller Notgeld captures a fascinating moment when local communities created their own currency to keep everyday commerce moving.

Returns & Guarantee Disclaimer

All sales, returns, and guarantees for this item are governed strictly by our Terms of Service. Please review the full policy here before purchasing. By purchasing, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Serial Number Disclaimer

Actual serial numbers on banknotes vary from piece to piece. The serial shown in product photos may not match the banknote you receive, but all items are guaranteed authentic and graded as described.

Contact us

Feel free to reach out to us if You're searching for a specific banknote to add to Your collection or if You have any questions about our products, services, or a previous order - we are here to assist You!