20 Mark Kaiser Wilhelm II. Gold Coin | Prussia | 1888
Berlin Mint
The Berlin Mint is a German mint located in Berlin.
It produces circulation, commemorative, and collector coins for Germany.
Coins from Berlin bear the mint mark “A.”
The mint combines long-standing tradition with modern minting technology.
GPSR: Münze Deutschland
Barbarastr. 1
50735 Köln
(0961) / 3818 3970
info@muenze-deutschland.de
🇩🇪 20 Mark Emperor Wilhelm II Prussia 1888 – gold coin – Early imperial minting with imperial portrait
The 20 Mark gold coin from Prussia featuring the portrait of Emperor Wilhelm II from the year 1888 is part of the early issues of the German Empire and is associated with the so-called Year of the Three Emperors. The coin was minted at the Prussian mints, commonly bearing the mint marks “A” (Berlin) or “B” (Hannover), and follows the standardized specifications of imperial gold coinage. The design combines the depiction of the monarch with the clear symbolism of the Empire.
The obverse shows the portrait of Wilhelm II in a right-facing depiction. The image appears youthful yet determined, with clearly defined facial features and a calm, precise line style. The fine details of the hair and the even modeling give the portrait a balanced sense of depth. Surrounding it is the inscription “WILHELM II DEUTSCHER KAISER KÖNIG V. PREUSSEN”, clearly stating the ruler’s title and harmoniously framing the composition.
The reverse features the imperial eagle of the German Empire with outstretched wings. Above the eagle is the imperial crown, while on its chest appears a shield bearing the Prussian eagle. Encircling the design are the inscriptions “DEUTSCHES REICH” and the denomination 20 MARK, complemented by the year 1888. The arrangement of elements is clear and balanced, following the typical design principles of imperial coinage.
The minting quality is finely and precisely executed. The details of the portrait as well as the structure of the eagle are cleanly modeled and clearly separated from one another. Light moves calmly across the surface and subtly highlights the individual design elements. The combination of smooth fields and finely detailed structures creates a balanced three-dimensional effect.
The coin consists of a gold alloy with a fineness of 900/1000 and has a total weight of approximately 7.96 grams, corresponding to a fine gold content of about 7.16 grams. The diameter is around 22.5 millimeters, giving the coin a balanced and well-proportioned appearance. The alloy provides stability and emphasizes its character as a historical circulation coin.
The design combines the personal depiction of the emperor with the overarching state symbolism of the Empire. While the obverse centers on the portrait of Wilhelm II, the reverse complements the design with the imperial eagle, adding its political context. The clear line work creates a calm and cohesive overall impression.
In its entirety, the 20 Mark gold coin of Prussia from 1888 represents a precise and balanced depiction of the early imperial era. The combination of a characteristic portrait, clear symbolism, and fine minting quality gives this issue a calm and timeless appearance within German imperial gold coinage.
| Metal | Gold |
| Form | Gold Coin |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | Berlin Mint |
| Series | German Empire |
| Fineweight | 7.16 gram |
| Gross Weight | 7.96 gram |
| Year of issue | 1888 |
| Grade | Brilliant |
| Condition | Circulated |
| Face value | 20 Mark |
| Thickness | 1.40 mm |
| Diameter | 22.50 mm |
| Packaging | Single in Pouch |