Germany, 5 Mark, from the series Coins of All Nations (N72, variation 1) for Duke brand cigarettes 1889

This color lithograph of a German soldier with a 5 Mark coin was created around 1890 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as a promotional item for their Duke brand cigarettes. Part of a series called “Coins of all Nations”, the card reflects the intense nationalism and global economic competition of the period. The caricature of the soldier, complete with spiked helmet and rifle, embodies the militaristic pride of the German Empire following its unification in 1871. The inclusion of the 5 Mark coin, bearing the imperial eagle, emphasizes Germany's economic power. Cigarette cards like these played a role in shaping public perceptions of different countries and their currencies. Mass produced and widely circulated, they promoted both the company's brand and a sense of national identity. Understanding these images requires delving into the archives of advertising, trade, and popular culture. Only then can we fully grasp how art intertwines with social and institutional contexts.