The Kingdom of Hanover, once a powerful state in northern Germany, played a crucial role in the development of early European postage systems. Before its annexation by Prussia in 1866, Hanover issued some of the most visually striking and historically important stamps in German philately. The 1851 Hanover stamp series, introduced during the reign of King George V, reflects the kingdom’s monarchical pride, economic system, and early postal security innovations.
This post provides an in-depth look at the history, technical features, and full catalogue listing of Hanover’s 1851 imperforate stamp series, using the Stanley Gibbons catalogue as a reference for valuations.
Historical Background: The Postal System of Hanover
The Kingdom of Hanover, founded in 1692, became a key German state in the 19th century with its own monetary system and independent postal service. The kingdom used a dual currency system, transitioning from the Gutegröschen to the Thaler before the introduction of the North German Postal Confederation in 1868.
Before joining the Prussian-dominated German Empire, Hanover issued a series of unique stamps, many of which are now highly valuable. The 1851 stamp issue was particularly significant, marking one of Hanover’s earliest forays into modern postal communication.
The 1851 Hanover Stamps: Technical Features and Security Innovations
1. Printing and Design
- Engraver: J. F. Fickenscher
- Typography: Senator Culemann, Hanover
- Printing Method: Letterpress (typographic printing)
- Imperforate Format: Required manual cutting from sheets
2. Black Impression & Watermark
- The 1851 issue features Black Impressions (W3 watermark), a unique security measure designed to prevent forgery.
- The watermark consists of a laurel wreath, symbolizing royal authority and postal credibility.
3. Currency System on Stamps
- Hanover used a distinct currency:
- 1850 System: 12 Pfennig = 1 Gutegröschen, 24 Gutegröschen = 1 Thaler
- 1858 System: 10 Pfennig = 1 Groschen, 30 Groschen = 1 Thaler
- The Thaler-based valuation influenced Hanover’s stamp denominations, with values expressed in Gutegröschen, Groschen, and Thaler.
Complete List of the 1851 Hanover Stamps and Valuations
Using the Stanley Gibbons catalogue, here is the full listing of the 1851 Hanover stamp series, including denomination, colour variations, and market values for mint and used conditions.
- 1 Groschen on Grey-Green (21.7.51) is valued at £150 for mint condition and £20 for used copies.
- 1 Groschen on Sea-Green (1855) is among the rarest, priced at £1,600 for mint and £50 for used.
- 1/30 Thaler on Salmon (21.7.51) holds a valuation of £170 for mint and £85 for used copies.
- 1/30 Thaler on Crimson (15.2.55) is slightly more valuable, at £175 mint and £85 used.
- 1/15 Thaler on Blue (21.7.51) commands a price of £275 for mint and £130 for used.
- 1/10 Thaler on Orange (21.7.51) is valued at £325 mint and £100 for used copies.
- 1/10 Thaler on Orange-Yellow shares the same valuation as the orange variation: £325 for mint and £100 for used.
🔍 Reprint Alert: The ⅒ Thaler was reprinted on unwatermarked paper in 1889 with white gum. This reprint can also be found in tête-bêche format, meaning two stamps printed upside-down relative to each other—a rarity highly prized by collectors.
Why Are These Stamps Highly Collectible?
1. The Last Stamps of an Independent Hanover
Issued before the Prussian annexation, these stamps represent one of the final postal issues of an independent Hanover.
2. Security Features: Watermarks and Black Impressions
Unlike other early German states, Hanover’s stamps used distinct black impressions and watermark T3, making them harder to forge and easier to authenticate.
3. Rare Colour Variants and Reprints
Stamps like 1 Groschen on Sea-Green (£1,600 mint) and the ⅒ Thaler tête-bêche reprint are among the most elusive Hanoverian issues in the market.
4. Investment Potential
With market valuations reaching up to £1,600, Hanover’s stamps remain a strong investment choice for philatelists looking for pre-German Empire rarities.
Expert Tips for Collectors and Investors
- Check Watermarks and Impressions – The W3 laurel wreath watermark is key to verifying authenticity.
- Verify Colour Variations – Some variations (e.g., Sea-Green) are extremely rare and command high market values.
- Avoid Unwatermarked 1889 Reprints – While collectible, these lack the original value of the 1851 issue.
- Get Certification for High-Value Stamps – BPP (Bund Philatelistischer Prüfer) certification adds legitimacy and resale value.
Final Thoughts: Hanover’s 1851 Stamps as a Legacy in Philately
The 1851 Hanover stamp series represent a fascinating blend of postal innovation, royal heritage, and economic history. From the Thaler-based currency system to the advanced watermark security features, these stamps reflect the Kingdom of Hanover’s rich philatelic legacy.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to classic German philately, acquiring one of these stamps means owning a genuine piece of history. With some stamps fetching over £1,600, these remain one of the most prized pre-German Empire collections.
For those passionate about historical stamps, classic postal designs, and 19th-century European philately, the 1851 Hanover series is an exceptional addition to any collection.