German Plebiscite Territories Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Plebiscite Territories Stamps
The German Plebiscite Territories were a collection of small regions in Central Europe, primarily in East and West Prussia, whose final disposition was determined by popular vote following World War I. These areas were administered temporarily by the League of Nations or neighboring states, leading to a complex postal history marked by provisional issues and overprints reflecting shifting sovereignty. Stamps from these territories typically featured German language inscriptions, often alongside local or administrative markings, before their definitive incorporation into Poland or Germany. The issues cease abruptly following the 1920 plebiscites, marking a brief but distinct period in German philatelic geography.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1920 β 1920
- Languages:
- German, Polish
- Currency:
- DEM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
German Plebiscite Territories stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Plebiscite Territories Stamp Series
Allenstein Plebiscite (1920)
Stamps of Germany overprinted 'ABSTIMMUNGSGEBIET ALLENSTEIN' or 'TRAVNA' for the plebiscite region.
Marienwerder Plebiscite (1920)
German stamps overprinted 'MARIENWERDER' or 'PLEBISZIT MARIENWERDER' for the plebiscite area.
Schleswig Plebiscite (1920)
German stamps overprinted 'S.H.' (Schleswig-Holstein) or 'VOTING AREA' for the plebiscite zones.
German Plebiscite Territories Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of German Plebiscite Territory stamps varies significantly based on the specific territory, overprint, condition, and rarity. Some provisional issues and errors can be quite valuable, especially those from Allenstein and Marienwerder. Complete sets and covers are highly sought after.
How to Identify German Plebiscite Territories Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Plebiscite Territories stamps:
- 1 Look for German stamps with distinctive overprints indicating the plebiscite territory (e.g., 'ABSTIMMUNGSGEBIET ALLENSTEIN', 'MARIENWERDER', 'S.H.').
- 2 Check for specific dates around 1920, as these issues were short-lived.
- 3 Examine the overprint for authenticity; forgeries are known due to their value.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Plebiscite Territories stamps?
German Plebiscite Territories stamps are issues from small regions in Central Europe, primarily in East and West Prussia, where the population voted on their national allegiance after World War I. These stamps were typically German issues overprinted with the name of the plebiscite territory or other relevant markings, used for a brief period around 1920.
Are German Plebiscite Territories stamps valuable?
Yes, many German Plebiscite Territories stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprints, errors, and complete sets. Their short period of use and historical significance contribute to their desirability among collectors. Values can range from a few euros for common issues to thousands for rare varieties.
How can I identify German Plebiscite Territories stamps?
To identify German Plebiscite Territories stamps, look for German stamps from the early 20th century (around 1920) that bear specific overprints such as 'ALLENSTEIN', 'MARIENWERDER', 'S.H.' (Schleswig-Holstein), or other territorial designations. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known issues and verify its authenticity.
Which catalogs list German Plebiscite Territories stamps?
German Plebiscite Territories stamps are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Germany and Colonies section), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (under Germany and related areas).
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