Luxembourg Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Luxembourg Stamps
Luxembourg is a small, landlocked nation situated in Western Europe, bordering Belgium, France, and Germany. Its postal history is characterized by independent administration following the dissolution of the Netherlands-Belgium union, with the country joining the General Postal Union (later UPU) in 1875. Stamps predominantly feature the French language, reflecting its official status, alongside German and Luxembourgish in various periods. The Grand Duchy has maintained consistent sovereignty over its postal services, transitioning smoothly to modern international postal standards and eventually adopting the Euro.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1852 – present
- Languages:
- French, German, Luxembourgish
- Currency:
- EUR
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Stamp Catalogs
Luxembourg stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Luxembourg Stamp Series
First Issues (Effigies of William III) (1852-1859)
The iconic first stamps of Luxembourg featuring the effigy of William III, King of the Netherlands and Grand Duke of Luxembourg.
Grand Ducal Family Issues (Early 20th Century - Present)
A long-running series depicting various members of the Grand Ducal family, a staple of Luxembourgish philately.
Europa Series (1956-Present)
Luxembourg's contributions to the annual Europa series, showcasing European unity and cultural themes.
Luxembourg Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially in fine condition or on cover, can be quite valuable. Later commemorative issues are generally affordable, while errors or rare varieties command higher prices.
How to Identify Luxembourg Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Luxembourg stamps:
- 1 Look for 'LUXEMBOURG' or 'GRAND-DUCHÉ DE LUXEMBOURG' as the country name.
- 2 Early stamps often feature portraits of William III, William IV, or Charlotte.
- 3 Later stamps frequently depict members of the Grand Ducal family, national landmarks, or cultural themes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Luxembourg stamps?
Luxembourg stamps are postage stamps issued by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg since 1852. They reflect the country's history, culture, and monarchy, often featuring the Grand Ducal family, national landmarks, and European themes.
Are Luxembourg stamps valuable?
The value of Luxembourg stamps varies significantly. Early issues, particularly those from the 19th century in good condition or with rare cancellations, can be quite valuable, ranging from €50 to several thousand euros. More common modern issues are generally affordable, typically costing between €0.50 and €5.
How can I identify Luxembourg stamps?
You can identify Luxembourg stamps by looking for the country name 'LUXEMBOURG' or 'GRAND-DUCHÉ DE LUXEMBOURG'. Early stamps often feature portraits of the Grand Dukes. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons.
Which catalogs list Luxembourg stamps?
Luxembourg stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (worldwide), Michel (Europe), and Stanley Gibbons (Commonwealth & worldwide). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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