Old German States Stamps
Old Germany, encompassing the various German states prior to unification in 1871, represents a complex geographical area in Central Europe with a fragmented postal history. Before the North German Confederation established a unified postal system, numerous independent postal administrations, such as those of Bavaria, Saxony, and Prussia, issued their own stamps, often reflecting regional dialects alongside standard German.
- Issued stamps
- 1849–1871
- Region
- Europe, Western Europe
- Currency
- Various (e.g., Kreuzer, Groschen, Silbergroschen)
- Languages
- German
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Old German States stamps
This period is characterized by the transition from localized postal services to a unified Reichspost, significantly impacting the philatelic landscape through frequent administrative changes and the eventual adoption of a common German currency and language on stamps. The fragmentation meant that collectors must navigate issues from dozens of distinct entities before the establishment of the German Empire.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- BAYERN
- SACHSEN
- PREUSSEN
How to identify Old German States stamps
- Look for the name of the issuing German state (e.g., 'BAYERN', 'SACHSEN', 'PREUSSEN') or its coat of arms.
- Pay attention to the currency denominations, which varied significantly between states (e.g., 'Kreuzer', 'Groschen', 'Silbergroschen', 'Pfennig').
- Examine watermarks and paper types, as these are crucial for distinguishing between similar issues and identifying forgeries.
- Note the design elements, such as portraits of rulers, coats of arms, or simple numerals, which are characteristic of specific states.
Popular series
-
Bavaria: One Kreuzer Black
1849
Bavaria's first stamp, a classic and highly sought-after issue, known for its simple design and historical significance.
-
Saxony: Three Pfennig Red
1850
Saxony's initial stamp, a distinctive red issue that is a cornerstone for collectors of early German states.
-
Prussia: Eagle Issues
1850-1867
Various issues featuring the Prussian eagle, representing one of the largest and most influential German states.
-
North German Confederation: Shield Issues
1868-1871
Stamps issued by the transitional North German Confederation, featuring a shield design, bridging the gap to the German Empire.
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
- €5–€50
- Scarce stamps
- €500–€50,000+
Values vary wildly depending on the specific state, issue, condition, and rarity. Early issues from smaller states or rare cancellations can command very high prices. Common, later issues from larger states are generally more affordable.
Catalogs. Old German States 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 Old German States stamps
Old Germany stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the various independent German states and postal administrations before the unification of Germany in 1871. This period includes issues from entities like Bavaria, Saxony, Prussia, Hanover, and the North German Confederation, each with its own distinct postal system.
Yes, many Old Germany stamps are highly valuable, especially early issues, rare varieties, or stamps from smaller states in fine condition. The 'One Kreuzer Black' of Bavaria or the 'Three Pfennig Red' of Saxony are iconic examples. However, value depends heavily on rarity, condition, and specific issue. Common stamps from larger states might be less valuable, while rare cancellations or errors can fetch significant sums.
To identify Old Germany stamps, look for the name of the issuing state (e.g., 'BAYERN', 'SACHSEN'), the currency used (e.g., 'Kreuzer', 'Groschen'), and distinctive design elements like coats of arms or portraits. Using a specialized stamp catalog like Michel or Scott is essential. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Old Germany stamps are extensively covered in major international stamp catalogs. The Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog is the definitive German catalog, offering the most comprehensive listings. Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue and Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps also include listings for the German States, though often with less detail than Michel.
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