Much like central banks across the globe, the Deutsche Bundesbank proudly curates an extensive collection of coins, paper currency, and other historically significant monetary artifacts. This practice serves two key purposes: preserving the trajectory of cash development for future generations and commemorating the physical witnesses of coinage and financial policies spanning over two and a half millennia, dating back to the invention of coinage in the 7th century BC. The collection not only documents the evolution of currency but also provides a tangible link to critical milestones in monetary history.
Boasting an exquisite assortment of over 90,000 coins and approximately 260,000 banknotes from diverse corners of the world, the numismatic collection of the Deutsche Bundesbank ranks among the most prominent institutions of its kind on an international scale.
Supplementing the coin and banknote collection are an additional 3,000 historically significant monetary objects. These include coin dies, printing plates, scales, weights, coin-adorned vessels, and piggy banks. The collection also encompasses engravings, prints, coin mandates, edicts, and other historical publications from the late 17th to the early 20th century.
Diligent efforts by the dedicated staff ensure the meticulous handling, cataloging, and preservation of the collection, often utilizing resources from the specialized numismatic library. The library houses around 23,000 units of media and is accessible to external visitors upon prior arrangement.
The Money Museum of the Deutsche Bundesbank serves as a platform to showcase exceptional individual items from the numismatic collection through a permanent exhibition. Additionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions that delve into pivotal facets of monetary history, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of money and its influence on society.