The Prussian State Bank was a state-owned entity that played a significant role in the economy of the Kingdom of Prussia. It was founded in 1772 as a shipping company, the Seehandlungsgesellschaft or simply Seehandlung, intended to boost Prussia's foreign trade. In the course of the 19th century, it became increasingly active as a state bank, and was consequently renamed Königliche Seehandlung (Preußische Staatsbank) in 1904 and Preußische Staatsbank in 1918. It ceased activity in 1945 and was kept as a dormant entity, which was eventually liquidated in 1983.