Thurn and Taxis Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Thurn and Taxis Stamps
The Thurn and Taxis postal system operated across Central Europe, primarily within the Holy Roman Empire and later the German Confederation, rather than being confined to a single modern nation-state. This private postal service, established by the powerful Thurn and Taxis family, held a near-monopoly on mail carriage for centuries, predating many national postal administrations. Stamps issued under their authority, particularly in the mid-19th century, typically bear German language inscriptions reflecting their operational heartland. The system's eventual absorption into the German Empire's unified postal service in 1867 marks a significant administrative transition in European postal history.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1852 – 1866
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- XEU
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Stamp Catalogs
Thurn and Taxis stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Thurn and Taxis Stamp Series
First Issues (Kreuzer Currency) (1852-1859)
The initial stamps issued in Kreuzer denominations, featuring the Thurn and Taxis post horn emblem. These are highly sought after by collectors.
Groschen Currency Issues (1859-1866)
Stamps issued in Groschen denominations, reflecting a currency change in parts of their operational area. These also feature the post horn.
Official Stamps (1862-1866)
Stamps specifically for official use, often identifiable by overprints or distinct designs, though less common than definitive issues.
Thurn and Taxis Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Thurn and Taxis stamps varies significantly based on condition, denomination, color, and cancellations. Early issues, especially those in fine condition or with rare cancellations, command high prices. Forgeries are also prevalent, so expert authentication is often recommended for high-value items.
How to Identify Thurn and Taxis Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Thurn and Taxis stamps:
- 1 Look for the distinctive post horn emblem, often crowned, which is central to most Thurn and Taxis stamp designs.
- 2 Examine the inscriptions, which are typically in German, such as 'Thurn und Taxis' or 'Freimarke'.
- 3 Pay attention to the currency denominations: 'Kreuzer' (Kr.) or 'Groschen' (Gr.) are key indicators.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Thurn and Taxis stamps?
Thurn and Taxis stamps were issued by the private postal system operated by the princely House of Thurn and Taxis, which provided postal services across much of Central Europe, primarily within the Holy Roman Empire and later the German Confederation, from 1852 until its absorption into the North German Confederation postal system in 1867.
Are Thurn and Taxis stamps valuable?
Yes, many Thurn and Taxis stamps are valuable, especially early issues, rare denominations, or those in pristine condition with clear cancellations. Their historical significance as a major private postal service before national unification contributes to their desirability among collectors. Common stamps might be worth €10-€100, while rare examples can fetch thousands or even tens of thousands of Euros.
How can I identify Thurn and Taxis stamps?
Thurn and Taxis stamps are primarily identified by their designs featuring the post horn emblem, often crowned, and German inscriptions like 'Thurn und Taxis' or 'Freimarke'. The denominations will be in 'Kreuzer' or 'Groschen'. For precise identification and to check for authenticity, using a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Thurn and Taxis stamps?
Thurn and Taxis stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (often under 'German States' or 'Thurn and Taxis'), the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (though less prominent for this issuer, they are covered in broader European sections).
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