Postage Stamps of Lübeck

Historical Context

  • Issuance Period: Lübeck issued its own postage stamps from 1859 until 1868.
  • Free City-State: As a free city of the Hanseatic League, Lübeck managed its postal system independently.

Key Features

  1. Designs:
    • Stamps prominently featured the city’s coat of arms, typically with a double-headed eagle.
    • Simple yet distinctive designs were used throughout the issuance period.
  2. Denominations:
    • Initial denominations included ½ Schilling, 1 Schilling, 2 Schilling, and 4 Schilling.
    • The currency used was “Schilling.”
  3. Colors:
    • Various colors were used to distinguish between different denominations, such as black, red, blue, and green.
  4. Usage:
    • Stamps were used for both local and international mail.

Collectibility

  • Rarity and Value:
    • Early issues and stamps in good condition are highly valued by collectors.
    • Covers with these stamps are particularly sought after.
    • Errors, color variations, and unique postmarks can increase a stamp’s value.

Notable Issues

  1. First Issue (1859):
    • Featured the double-headed eagle.
    • Included denominations like ½ Schilling (black) and 1 Schilling (red).
  2. Later Issues:
    • Higher denominations and additional designs.

Overview

The postage stamps of Lübeck are significant for their historical and philatelic value. Their unique designs and limited issuance make them a fascinating subject for collectors and historians alike.