Memel Stamps
Memel, known today as Klaipėda, is a port city situated on the Baltic coast of present-day Lithuania. Its postal history is complex, marked by shifting sovereignty between Germany and Lithuania, which heavily influenced its philatelic output.
- Issued stamps
- 1920–1923
- Region
- Europe, Eastern Europe
- Currency
- DEM
- Languages
- German, Lithuanian
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Memel stamps
Stamps issued during the period of German administration, particularly after World War I, often feature German inscriptions, while later issues reflect Lithuanian control. The region's unique political status and transitions are clearly documented through the varying issuing authorities and languages appearing on its postal stationery.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Memel stamps
- Look for 'Memelgebiet' or 'Memel' overprints on German or Lithuanian stamps.
- Examine the inscriptions for 'Memelgebiet' or 'Klaipėda' as part of the stamp design.
- Pay attention to the currency (Pfennig/Mark for German issues, Centas/Litas for Lithuanian issues).
Popular series
-
German Stamps Overprinted 'Memelgebiet'
1920-1921
German stamps overprinted 'Memelgebiet' (Memel Territory) in various types and colors, signifying the region's post-WWI status under Allied administration.
-
Lithuanian Stamps Overprinted 'Memel'
1923
Lithuanian stamps overprinted 'Memel' or 'Klaipėda' after the Lithuanian takeover, reflecting the shift in sovereignty.
-
Definitives with 'Memelgebiet' Inscription
1921-1922
Stamps specifically inscribed 'Memelgebiet' with various designs, often featuring local scenes or symbols.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- €0.50–€5
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
The value of Memel stamps varies significantly based on the specific issue, overprint type, condition, and rarity of errors or varieties. Early German overprints and certain Lithuanian overprints can be quite valuable, especially in fine used or unused condition. Complete sets and specific plate varieties command higher prices.
Catalogs. Memel stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Memel stamps
Memel stamps are postage stamps issued for the Memel Territory (now Klaipėda, Lithuania) between 1920 and 1923. They reflect the region's complex political history, featuring German stamps overprinted 'Memelgebiet' and later Lithuanian stamps overprinted 'Memel' or 'Klaipėda', as well as some definitive issues.
Some Memel stamps can be quite valuable, particularly rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps in pristine condition. Common issues might be worth a few euros, while rare examples can fetch hundreds of euros. Factors like condition, rarity, and specific overprint types greatly influence their market value.
You can identify Memel stamps by looking for the inscriptions 'Memelgebiet' or 'Memel' (or 'Klaipėda') on the stamps, often as an overprint on German or Lithuanian issues. The period of issue (1920-1923) is also a key indicator. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Memel stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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