History of the Postage Stamps of Luxembourg

The history of Luxembourg’s stamps is rich and varied, reflecting the country’s historical and political developments. Here is a chronological overview of the most important moments and developments in Luxembourgish stamp history:

First Editions (1852-1880)

  • 1852: Luxembourg introduces its first stamps on September 15, 1852. This series contains two values: 10 centimes and 1 silbergroschen, with the portrait of Grand Duke William III. These stamps were printed in black and white and had no perforation.
  • 1859: A new series of stamps is introduced with the values ​​1, 2, 4, 10, 12 and 37 centimes, again with the portrait of William III.

Grand Duchess Adelheid Marie (1880-1914)

  • 1882: After the death of William III, new stamps are issued with the portrait of Grand Duchess Adelheid Marie, wife of Grand Duke Adolf.
  • 1891: The stamps are adjusted to reflect the changed units of value. The franc is introduced as the currency.

World War I and Interbellum (1914-1940)

  • 1914-1918: During the First World War, Luxembourg remains neutral, but the postal service is affected by the occupation of the country. However, no special occupation stamps are issued.
  • 1921: Luxembourg’s first airmail stamps are introduced. These stamps were used for postal items sent via airmail.
  • 1923: Luxembourg starts issuing commemorative stamps. The first series commemorates the 50th anniversary of Luxembourg’s independence.

Second World War and Occupation (1940-1945)

  • 1940-1944: During the German occupation of Luxembourg, special occupation stamps are issued, with German inscriptions and often with the portrait of Adolf Hitler.
  • 1944: After the liberation of Luxembourg, regular stamps are issued again, with symbols of freedom and reconstruction.

Post-War Period and Modernization (1945-present)

  • 1945-1950: Luxembourg introduces a series of commemorative stamps in honor of the liberation and the end of the Second World War. These stamps often feature patriotic themes.
  • 1952: Special commemorative stamps are issued on the occasion of the centenary of Luxembourg stamps.
  • 1960-present: Luxembourg continues to issue a wide range of thematic stamps, including stamps celebrating national and international events, culture, sports and science. Modern technologies such as photogravure and digital printing are used to produce detailed and colorful stamps.

Important Features of Luxembourg Stamps

  • Portraits of Monarchs: Stamps often feature portraits of the reigning Grand Dukes and Grand Duchesses, such as William III, Adelheid Marie, Charlotte, Jean, and Henri.
  • Commemorative issues: Luxembourg has a tradition of commemorative stamps celebrating important historical events and national anniversaries.
  • Thematic Diversity: Modern Luxembourgish stamps cover a wide range of themes, such as art, culture, nature, sports and science.
  • Innovation and Technology: Luxembourgish stamps use modern printing techniques and innovative designs, such as holographic elements and personalized stamps.

Overview

The history of Luxembourgish stamps offers a rich insight into the evolution of the country itself. From the first issue in 1852 to today’s modern, thematic issues, Luxembourg stamps reflect political, cultural and technological changes over the years. For philatelists, Luxembourgish stamps are a fascinating collection full of historical and artistic value, and they remain an important part of the country’s postal and cultural heritage.