800.515/961: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union ( Harriman ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 17—1:22 a.m.]
509. I received today a letter from Molotov dated February 14 with regard to the proposed currency arrangements during the invasion and occupation of Germany communicated in the Department’s 85, January 14, 11 p.m.
[Page 829]In his reply Molotov states that:
- 1.
- The Soviet Government shares the desire of the American and British Governments to collaborate in the issuance of military currency on German territory during the invasion and occupation of Germany by the Allied armies.
- 2.
- The Soviet Government agrees with the currency measures proposed by the Department and in particular with the expediency of issuing in Germany during this period military “M–marks” of the design, denominations, and sizes contemplated.
- 3.
- It would be expedient that the expression “Allied military authorities” be printed on the notes.
- 4.
- The Soviet Government desires to receive the proposals of the Treasury Department regarding the exchange rate of the “M–mark” and its relationship to the reichsmark.
- 5.
- The People’s Commissariat for Finance considers that it would be expedient to have serial numbers on bank notes of all denominations not excluding those of small denominations.
- 6.
- In preparing the currency the Commissariat for Finance considers that it would be more correct to print a portion of the currency in the Soviet Union in order that a constant supply of currency to the command of the Red Army may be guaranteed.
- 7.
- In order that the “M–marks” may be of like design it will be necessary to furnish the Commissariat for Finance with plates of all denominations, a list of the serial numbers and models of the paper and colors for printing “M-marks” when the necessity therefor arises.
In conclusion Molotov asks that he be informed in the near future when the Commissariat for Finance may expect to receive the plates, list of serial numbers and models of paper and colors for the “M–marks” which it requests. I should appreciate instructions on this point.