Görlitz Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Görlitz (Local Issues) Stamps
Görlitz is a historic city situated in the eastern part of Germany, specifically in the state of Saxony, bordering Poland. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the German postal system, evolving through the German Empire, Weimar Republic, and subsequent German states, though the city itself experienced a unique division after World War II. Following the Potsdam Agreement, the eastern part of the city became Zgorzelec, Poland, while the western part retained the name Görlitz under German administration, leading to distinct postal administrations on either side of the Neisse River. Stamps issued by the German entity feature German language and utilize the Deutsche Mark or Euro, reflecting its integration into the unified German postal network.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1945 – 1945
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- DEM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
Görlitz (Local Issues) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Görlitz (Local Issues) Stamp Series
Local Issues of Görlitz (1945)
Provisional stamps issued by the local postal authority in Görlitz immediately after World War II, often overprinted on existing German stamps or as entirely new designs.
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Görlitz (Local Issues) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Görlitz local issues varies significantly based on the specific issue, condition, and any overprints or varieties. Mint condition and rare errors or specific printings command higher prices. Many are relatively affordable, but some key issues can be quite valuable.
How to Identify Görlitz (Local Issues) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Görlitz (Local Issues) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'GÖRLITZ' or 'Stadt Görlitz' inscriptions, often as overprints on German stamps.
- 2 Examine the design for local motifs or provisional markings.
- 3 Check for watermarks and perforations, which can help distinguish specific issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Görlitz stamps?
Görlitz stamps refer to the provisional local postal issues created in the city of Görlitz, Germany, immediately following World War II in 1945. These were necessary due to the collapse of the central German postal administration and were used for local mail services before the re-establishment of a unified postal system.
Are Görlitz stamps valuable?
The value of Görlitz local stamps can vary. While many common issues are relatively inexpensive, certain provisional overprints, rare varieties, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch significant prices, ranging from €5 for common items to several hundred euros for rare pieces. Their historical context as post-war local issues adds to their philatelic interest.
How can I identify Görlitz stamps?
Görlitz stamps are typically identified by inscriptions such as 'GÖRLITZ' or 'Stadt Görlitz,' often as overprints on existing German stamps or as distinct local designs. Key identifiers include the specific overprint type, the underlying stamp (if overprinted), and the year of issue (1945). Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the origin and specific issue by scanning the stamp.
Which catalogs list Görlitz stamps?
Görlitz local issues are primarily listed in specialized German stamp catalogs, most notably the Michel catalog (Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog). They are generally not found in major international catalogs like Scott or Stanley Gibbons, which focus on national or colonial issues.
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