
In Germany, you'll often hear the term "DM" being used to refer to the Deutsche Mark, the country's former currency that was replaced by the Euro in 2002.
The DM was divided into 100 Pfennigs, with denominations ranging from 1 Pfennig to 1000 Deutsche Mark.
As a tourist, it's worth noting that the DM is no longer a widely accepted currency, especially in larger cities like Berlin and Munich.
However, some smaller shops and markets might still accept DM for cash transactions, especially if you're willing to negotiate the exchange rate.
Broaden your view: Mark Currency
History of the DEM
The Deutschmark, or DEM, has a rich history that spans several decades. It was introduced in 1948 as a viable alternative to the Metallurgische Forschungsgesellschaft (MEFO) bills and the Reichsmark used in the Western Occupation Zone.
The Deutschmark was a key factor in the economic recovery of West Germany, helping to acquit nearly 90% of both public and private debt when it was formally adopted in 1949. This led to a significant rebound in the economy.
The introduction of the Deutschmark came after the end of World War II, and it was considered one of the most stable currencies in Europe at the time. The German central bank, the Deutsche Bundesbank, continued to allow the conversion of the Deutschmark into euros until 2002.
The Soviet Union saw the introduction of the D-mark as a threat, leading to the closing of all road, waterway, and rail links between the Allied zones and the Berlin Blockade. This event had significant consequences for the region.
The Deutschmark remained the official currency of the Federal Republic of Germany until 2002, when it was replaced by the euro. Its official currency code was DEM on forex markets.
Understanding the DEM
The Deutschmark, or DEM, was a currency that played a significant role in German history. It was introduced in 1948 after World War II.
The Deutschmark was considered one of the most stable currencies in Europe, especially compared to other European countries. Its stability helped Germany's economy rebound after the war.
In 1949, the Federal Republic of Germany, also known as West Germany, formally adopted the D-mark at an exchange rate of 1 D-mark to 10 R-marks, which helped acquit nearly 90% of both public and private debt.
D-Mark Stability and East Germany
The D-Mark stability is a fascinating topic, and it's interesting to note that the Deutschmark retained its value even in times of economic upheaval.
The Bundesbank's prudence played a significant role in maintaining the stability of the D-Mark. The intelligent political interference with the currency also contributed to its stability.
In comparison to the French franc and the Italian lire, the German currency was more resilient. The policies that led to the stability of the D-Mark are actually the basis of the European Central Bank's policies toward the euro.
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Understanding the DEM
The Deutschmark, or DEM, was a currency that played a significant role in post-war Germany.
The DEM was introduced in 1948, after the end of World War II, as a viable alternative to the MEFO bills and Reichsmark used in the Western Occupation Zone.
The DEM was long considered one of the most stable currencies, especially compared to other European countries.

The introduction of the DEM helped the economy rebound by acquitting nearly 90% of both public and private debt at an exchange rate of 1 D-mark to 10 R-marks.
The adoption of the DEM in 1949 by the Federal Republic of Germany, also known as West Germany, was a crucial step in stabilizing the economy.
The DEM was left in circulation until 2002, when it was taken out of circulation and ceased to be legal tender.
The German central bank, the Deutsche Bundesbank, still allows the conversion of the DEM into euros.
The introduction of the DEM was seen as a threat by the Soviet Union, which controlled the eastern portion of the territory, leading to the Berlin Blockade.
For another approach, see: Germany Foreign Exchange Rate
Conversion and Exchange
You can still convert old DM to other currencies, and there are places where you can do it. Coinmill is a website that offers currency calculators and rates, suggesting it's a useful resource for making conversions.
If you're looking to convert DM to EURO or US dollars, you can use a currency calculator or check rates on a website like Coinmill. They also have a Facebook page, so you can stay up-to-date on their services.
You can find people asking about converting DM to other currencies online, indicating there's still a need for this service, even if the DM is no longer a widely used currency.
Exchange By Post
If you'd like to exchange Deutsche Mark banknotes and coins for euros by post, you can send them to the Mainz branch with a completed application form.
To do this, you'll need to send the cash you want to exchange, along with the application form, to the address listed on the form. Make sure to include your bank account information, specifically your IBAN, so the euros can be transferred correctly.
Please note that the Bundesbank will convert the amount of Deutsche Mark cash into euros at the current exchange rate, and the euro amount will be transferred to your bank account without any further information.
You should be aware that the Bundesbank does not confirm receipt of individual consignments, unless the delivery method requires this.
Also, if you're planning to send a large amount of cash, equivalent to €15,000.00 or more, it's recommended to contact the Bundesbank in advance to discuss the necessary information and documentation.
It's also worth noting that the Bundesbank accepts no liability for cash lost in the post, so be sure to check with your delivery service provider about how to send and insure cash correctly.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when exchanging Deutsche Mark cash by post:
- Large amounts of cash (€15,000.00 or more) require advance contact with the Bundesbank.
- The Bundesbank does not accept shipments with insufficient postage or customs fees due.
- Cash should be packed, declared, and insured correctly to prevent loss.
- Only Deutsche Mark banknotes and coins can be exchanged for euros.
Conversion Comments
You can still convert old DM, but you need to know where to do it.
Some people are looking to convert their DM to EURO or US currency.
You can add currency calculators or rates to your website, just like Coinmill does.
If you have old DM, you can find places to convert them.
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Germany's Currency
Germany only uses euros, having stopped using the Deutschmark in 2002 when it switched to the euro.
The Deutschmark was the official currency of West Germany and the unified German state until 2002.
It was first issued in 1948 and was known as the D-mark.
You can exchange Deutschmark bills and coins for euros at federal bank locations in Germany.
Here's a brief timeline of the Deutschmark's history:
The Deutschmark was a significant part of Germany's economic history, and its legacy continues to shape the country's currency and economy today.
Key Takeaways
The Deutschmark, or D-mark, was a major currency traded on forex markets and seen as a stable, reliable currency throughout much of the 20th century.
The Deutschmark was formally adopted as Germany's national currency in 1948, replacing the Papiermark, Rentenmark, and Reichsmark.
Here are some key facts about the Deutschmark:
- The Deutschmark was used in West Germany until it was replaced by the euro in 2002.
- It can still be exchanged for euros in Germany at the German federal bank.
The Deutschmark played a significant role in Germany's economic history, and its legacy continues to be felt today.
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