DDR Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Democratic Republic (DDR) Stamps
The German Democratic Republic (DDR), situated in Central Europe, emerged in 1949 following the division of post-war Germany under Soviet influence. Its postal history is characterized by issues reflecting socialist ideology and participation in the Universal Postal Union (UPU) as a separate entity from West Germany until reunification in 1990. Stamps predominantly feature the German language, often showcasing themes of industry, state achievements, and international solidarity. The administrative transition involved the absorption of the DDR postal system into the Deutsche Post AG upon German reunification, ending its independent philatelic issuance.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1949 – 1990
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- DDM
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Stamp Catalogs
German Democratic Republic (DDR) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Democratic Republic (DDR) Stamp Series
Five Year Plan (1950s-1980s)
Stamps celebrating economic achievements, industrial development, and socialist construction.
Famous Personalities (1950s-1990)
Issues honoring prominent figures from German history, science, arts, and socialist heroes.
International Solidarity (1960s-1980s)
Stamps promoting peace, anti-colonialism, and support for socialist movements worldwide.
German Democratic Republic (DDR) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Many common DDR stamps are readily available and inexpensive. However, early issues, imperforate varieties, specific errors, and certain definitive sets in mint condition can command significant prices. Complete year sets and specialized collections also hold higher value.
How to Identify German Democratic Republic (DDR) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Democratic Republic (DDR) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'DEUTSCHE DEMOKRATISCHE REPUBLIK' or 'DDR' as the country inscription.
- 2 Stamps often feature socialist realist art, industrial motifs, or portraits of communist leaders.
- 3 The currency changed from Deutsche Mark (East) to Mark der DDR (MDN) and then Mark der DDR (M) over its history, which can be an identifying feature for specific periods.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are DDR stamps?
DDR stamps are postage stamps issued by the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) from its formation in 1949 until its reunification with West Germany in 1990. They reflect the political, social, and economic themes of a socialist state.
Are DDR stamps valuable?
While many common DDR stamps are inexpensive, certain issues can be quite valuable. These include early definitive sets, specific commemorative issues, imperforate varieties, errors, and stamps with rare cancellations. The value depends heavily on condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
How can I identify DDR stamps?
DDR stamps are typically identified by the inscription 'DEUTSCHE DEMOKRATISCHE REPUBLIK' or 'DDR'. They often feature themes related to socialist achievements, industry, culture, and international solidarity. For precise identification and catalog numbers, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs like Michel or Scott.
Which catalogs list DDR stamps?
DDR stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. The Michel catalog (Germany) provides the most detailed coverage, but Scott (USA) and Stanley Gibbons (UK) also include extensive listings for German Democratic Republic issues.
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