Hamburg Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Hamburg (City-State) Stamps
Hamburg, a major city-state in Northern Germany, operated as a sovereign entity with its own postal administration until its incorporation into the German Empire. As a prominent Hanseatic League member, its postal history reflects its status as a vital European trading hub, issuing stamps independently until 1871. Stamps from this period predominantly feature German language inscriptions, often reflecting its maritime importance. Following unification, Hamburg's postal system was absorbed into the North German Confederation's postal service, marking a significant administrative transition.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1861 – 1861
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- Hamburg Mark
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Stamp Catalogs
Hamburg (City-State) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Hamburg (City-State) Stamp Series
Hamburg Coat of Arms Issues (1859-1867)
The definitive issues featuring the city's coat of arms, often depicting a castle with three towers.
Hamburg Postal Service Issues (1861-1867)
Stamps specifically inscribed 'HAMBURG' and 'POSTMARKE', representing the independent postal administration.
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Hamburg (City-State) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Hamburg stamps, especially those with good condition, clear cancellations, or rare shades/papers, can be quite valuable. The first issues are particularly sought after.
How to Identify Hamburg (City-State) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Hamburg (City-State) stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'HAMBURG' and 'POSTMARKE'.
- 2 Examine the central design, which typically features the Hamburg coat of arms (a castle with three towers).
- 3 Note the denomination in 'Schilling' or 'Mark' currency.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hamburg stamps?
Hamburg stamps are postage stamps issued by the independent city-state of Hamburg, a major trading hub in Northern Germany, from 1859 until its postal system was absorbed into the North German Confederation in 1868. These stamps reflect Hamburg's sovereign status and its significant role in European commerce.
Are Hamburg stamps valuable?
Yes, many Hamburg stamps can be quite valuable, especially the early issues, rare denominations, specific printings, or those in excellent condition with clear cancellations. Common examples might range from €5-€50, while rare varieties or high-grade examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros.
How can I identify Hamburg stamps?
To identify Hamburg stamps, look for the prominent inscription 'HAMBURG' and 'POSTMARKE'. The central design almost always features the city's coat of arms, a castle with three towers. Denominations are typically in 'Schilling' or 'Mark'. For precise identification and to check for varieties, use a stamp identifier app or consult a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Hamburg stamps?
Hamburg stamps are well-documented in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (often under German States or Germany).
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