Saar Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Saar (1947-1956) Stamps
The Saarland, located in Western Europe bordering France and Germany, experienced a unique postal history primarily influenced by its contested status following World War I and World War II. The region operated under a League of Nations mandate and later as a French protectorate, leading to distinct stamp issues that often reflected French administrative control, sometimes featuring French language alongside German. Following a brief period of full autonomy, Saarland was integrated into the Federal Republic of Germany in 1957, marking the end of its separate postal entity and the transition to Deutsche Bundespost issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1947 – 1956
- Languages:
- German, French
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
Saar (1947-1956) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Saar (1947-1956) Stamp Series
Saarland Coat of Arms (1947-1949)
The first definitive series for the Saarland, featuring the region's coat of arms, often overprinted on German stamps or new designs.
Famous Saarlanders (1950-1955)
A series of commemorative stamps honoring notable figures from the Saar region, reflecting its cultural identity.
Saar Plebiscite (1955)
Commemorative issues related to the referendum on the Saarland's future status, a pivotal moment in its history.
Saar (1947-1956) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Saar stamps are generally affordable. Rarities include early issues with specific overprints, plate varieties, and high-value definitives, especially in mint condition or on cover. The 1947-1948 issues and certain commemorative sets can command higher prices.
How to Identify Saar (1947-1956) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Saar (1947-1956) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'SAAR' or 'SAARLAND' inscriptions. Early issues may be German stamps overprinted 'SAAR'.
- 2 Check for French currency denominations (Francs) on later issues, indicating the period of French administration.
- 3 Note the specific designs, which often feature local landmarks, historical figures, or the Saarland coat of arms.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Saar stamps?
Saar stamps are postage stamps issued by the Saar region, a territory in Western Europe bordering France and Germany, during its periods of autonomous or semi-autonomous status, primarily from 1947 to 1956. Its postal history is distinct due to its post-war political status.
Are Saar stamps valuable?
The value of Saar stamps varies. Many common issues are inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, certain early overprints, specific commemorative sets, plate varieties, and high-denomination stamps, especially in mint condition or on original covers, can be quite valuable, reaching €50 to over €500.
How can I identify Saar stamps?
To identify Saar stamps, look for the inscription 'SAAR' or 'SAARLAND'. Early issues might be German stamps with a 'SAAR' overprint. Later stamps often feature French currency denominations. You can also use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp, which can quickly provide details and catalog references.
Which catalogs list Saar stamps?
Saar stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog (Germany Specialized), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others.
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