German Empire Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Empire Stamps
The German Empire, spanning Central Europe from 1871 to 1918, was a major European power whose postal system was unified under the North German Confederation framework. Its stamps, primarily denominated in Pfennig and Mark, predominantly feature German script, reflecting the consolidation of numerous smaller German states. The Empire established an extensive network of colonial post offices across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, which issued distinct stamps until the territories were lost after World War I. This period of unified postal administration ended with the establishment of the Weimar Republic, leading to significant changes in stamp design and issuing authority.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1872 – 1945
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- DEM
- issuer:german-empire.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:german-empire.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
German Empire stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Empire Stamp Series
Small Shield Issue (1872-1874)
The first definitive series of the German Empire, featuring the imperial eagle within a small shield, denominated in Groschen and Kreuzer, then Pfennig and Mark.
Reichspost Issue (1889-1900)
Definitive stamps featuring the imperial eagle and the inscription 'Reichspost', a long-running and widely used series.
Germania Issue (1900-1922)
One of the most iconic and longest-running German stamp series, depicting an allegorical figure of Germania. Many varieties exist, including those overprinted for inflation.
German Empire Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps from the German Empire are generally affordable. However, early issues, high denominations, specific plate flaws, rare cancellations, and especially stamps from German Colonies can command significant prices. The Germania series, while plentiful, has many valuable varieties due to overprints and paper types.
How to Identify German Empire Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Empire stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Deutsches Reich' or 'Reichspost' inscriptions.
- 2 Denominations are typically in Pfennig (Pf.) and Mark (M.).
- 3 Early issues often feature the imperial eagle or shield designs.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Empire stamps?
German Empire stamps are postage stamps issued by the unified German Empire from 1872 to 1918. They represent the postal history of Germany following its unification under Prussian leadership, including stamps for its colonial territories.
Are German Empire stamps valuable?
The value of German Empire stamps varies widely. Many common issues are inexpensive, but early issues, high denominations, specific varieties (like plate flaws or rare overprints), and stamps from German Colonies can be quite valuable, sometimes fetching hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Condition plays a crucial role in determining value.
How can I identify German Empire stamps?
To identify German Empire stamps, look for inscriptions like 'Deutsches Reich' or 'Reichspost' and denominations in Pfennig and Mark. Common designs include the imperial eagle, shields, and the allegorical figure of Germania. For precise identification and cataloging, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog like Michel or Scott is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list German Empire stamps?
German Empire stamps are extensively listed in all major philatelic catalogs. The Michel catalog (Germany) is considered the definitive reference for German stamps, offering the most detailed information. Scott (USA) and Stanley Gibbons (UK) also provide comprehensive listings and pricing for German Empire issues.
Not sure if your stamp is from German Empire?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store