Slesvig Stamps
Slesvig, historically a duchy situated in Northern Europe between the Jutland peninsula and the modern German state of Schleswig-Holstein, experienced complex postal administration reflecting shifting sovereignty. Its postal history is intertwined with both Danish and German spheres of influence, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries when control over the territory was contested.
- Issued stamps
- 1920–1920
- Region
- Europe, Northern Europe
- Currency
- DKK
- Languages
- German, Danish
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
About Slesvig stamps
Stamps issued during periods of Danish administration typically feature Danish language and currency, while periods under German authority would reflect German linguistic and monetary standards. The region's eventual division following the 1920 plebiscite led to distinct postal administrations in the northern (Danish) and southern (German) parts.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Slesvig stamps
- Look for the 'Slesvig' overprint on Danish stamps.
- Identify stamps specifically inscribed 'Slesvig' or 'Zone 1' with Danish currency.
- Pay attention to the specific type of overprint and its placement, as variations exist.
Popular series
-
Plebiscite Issues
1920
Stamps issued specifically for the 1920 plebiscite in Zone 1 (Northern Slesvig) to determine its national allegiance.
-
Overprinted Danish Stamps
1920
Danish stamps overprinted with 'Slesvig' or 'Zone 1' for use during the plebiscite period.
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
- €100–€1,000+
The value of Slesvig stamps, particularly the 1920 plebiscite issues, can vary significantly based on condition, specific overprints, and whether they are used or unused. Complete sets and covers are generally more valuable. Rarer varieties and errors can command higher prices.
Catalogs. Slesvig 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 Slesvig stamps
Slesvig stamps refer primarily to the postal issues used in the northern part of the former Duchy of Slesvig (Schleswig) during the 1920 plebiscite, which determined its return to Denmark. These are often Danish stamps overprinted with 'Slesvig' or 'Zone 1'.
Yes, Slesvig stamps can be valuable, especially the 1920 plebiscite issues. Their value depends on factors like condition, specific overprint varieties, and whether they are part of a complete set or on cover. Rarer examples can fetch significant prices, while more common types are moderately priced.
To identify Slesvig stamps, look for the distinct 'Slesvig' or 'Zone 1' overprints on Danish stamps from the 1920 period. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Slesvig stamps are listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on the various issues, their varieties, and estimated values.
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