Postage Stamps of West Berlin

Historical Context

  • Period: 1948-1990
  • Status: Issued in West Berlin during the Cold War era, under Allied administration, while the city was divided into East and West Berlin.

Key Features

  1. Unique Series:
    • Stamps issued specifically for West Berlin, separate from those of the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany).
    • Often inscribed with “Berlin” or “Deutsche Bundespost Berlin.”
  2. Designs:
    • Featured local landmarks, cultural icons, and significant events.
  3. Usage:
    • Valid only within West Berlin and West Germany.

Overview

West Berlin stamps are highly collectible due to their unique political context and the high-quality designs. They provide a historical insight into the Cold War era and the divided city of Berlin. Special issues and limited editions are particularly prized by philatelists.