NORMAL OPERATIONS CONTINUE AT COMMERCE BANK

(KANSAS CITY, MO, Wednesday, September 12, 2001) - Commerce Bank and the U.S. banking system continue to function normally.

Commerce Bank branch offices, ATMs, Account Information Lines, Commerce Internet Banking and Customer Service Centers are operating normally, and Commerce Bankers are available to serve customers.

Commerce Bank's executive management team continues to be on alert and is holding regular meetings and conference calls to assess the situation and ensure we address the needs of customers.

Following up on the Federal Reserve's commitment to provide whatever support is necessary to maintain orderly operation of the banking system, Commerce Bank again strongly advises its customers to keep their money in the bank where it is safest.

Further updates will be provided as appropriate.

Commerce Bank (NASD: CBSH) is a subsidiary of Commerce Bancshares, Inc., a registered bank holding company with assets of $11.7 billion offering a full line of banking services, including investment management and securities brokerage. The Company currently operates in 342 locations in Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas. The Company also has operating subsidiaries involved in mortgage banking, credit related insurance, venture capital, and real estate activities. For more information, visit www.commercebank.com.

For more information contact:
Charles Erker
Director of Public Relations
314-746-3760

Website: www.commercebank.com
e-mail: mymoney@commercebank.com

SYMBOL: CBSH

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