Sachsen (Saxony) Stamps
Sachsen, or Saxony, is a historical state located in Central Europe, primarily within modern-day Germany. Its postal history is deeply intertwined with the German postal system, particularly after joining the North German Confederation and later the German Empire, though it maintained its own postal administration until 1871.
- Issued stamps
- 1850–1863
- Region
- Europe, Central Europe
- Currency
- Sächsische Währung (Saxonian Currency)
- Languages
- German
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Sachsen (Saxony) stamps
Stamps from this period predominantly feature the German language and often bear the effigy of the Saxon monarchs. The region's administrative status has shifted significantly through periods of independent kingdom, incorporation into the German Reich, and subsequent division and reunification within the Federal Republic of Germany.
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.
- SACHSEN
How to identify Sachsen (Saxony) stamps
- Look for the German inscription 'SACHSEN' at the top or bottom of the stamp.
- Early issues (1850-1854) often feature the profile of King Friedrich August II or a large numeral '3'.
- Later issues (1855-1863) depict King Johann.
- Denominations are in 'Pfennig' and 'Neugroschen'.
Popular series
-
Sachsen-Dreier (Saxony Threepence)
1850
The iconic first stamp of Saxony, a 3 Pfennig red, featuring a large numeral '3' and often referred to as the 'Sachsen-Dreier'.
-
King Friedrich August II Issues
1850-1854
Stamps featuring the profile of King Friedrich August II, issued in various denominations and colors.
-
King Johann Issues
1855-1863
Issues depicting King Johann, succeeding Friedrich August II, with denominations in Neugroschen and Pfennige.
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–€10,000+
Early issues, especially the 1850 'Sachsen-Dreier' in good condition or on cover, command significant prices. Later issues are generally more affordable, but condition and cancellations are crucial. Rarities include specific plate varieties and unused examples.
Catalogs. Sachsen (Saxony) 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 Sachsen (Saxony) stamps
Sachsen (Saxony) stamps are postage stamps issued by the Kingdom of Saxony, a historical state in Central Europe, between 1850 and 1863. They represent a significant period in German philately before the unification of the German postal system.
Yes, some Sachsen stamps can be quite valuable. The 1850 'Sachsen-Dreier' (3 Pfennig red) is particularly sought after by collectors, with rare examples fetching thousands of Euros. Later issues can also hold value, especially in fine condition, unused, or with rare cancellations. Common used stamps are generally more affordable.
Sachsen stamps are identified by the clear 'SACHSEN' inscription, often featuring portraits of King Friedrich August II or King Johann, or large numerals. Denominations are in Pfennig and Neugroschen. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Sachsen stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog, Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Stanley Gibbons Part 7: Central Europe.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.