Saxony, one of the most historically significant German states, issued some of the earliest and rarest postage stamps in Europe. The 3 Pfennig stamp of 1850, also known as the “Sachsen Dreier“, is considered a crown jewel in German philately due to its historical importance, striking design, and extreme rarity.
This post explores the history, technical details, and full valuation of this remarkable Saxon stamp, referencing the Stanley Gibbons catalogue to provide collectors with an accurate guide to its variations and worth.
Historical Background: Saxony’s Postal System and King Friedrich August II
Saxony, one of the most influential states within the German Confederation, introduced its own postal system in the early 19th century. The need for an efficient and standardized postal service led to the introduction of imperforate adhesive stamps, beginning with the 3 Pfennig issue of June 29, 1850.
The reign of King Friedrich August II (1836–1854) saw major postal advancements, including the introduction of Saxony’s own currency system for postage:
- 10 Pfennig = 1 Neugroschen
- 30 Neugroschen = 1 Thaler
The “Sachsen Dreier” was issued during this period and remains one of the most famous and valuable classic German stamps.
Technical Features of the 1850 Saxony 3 Pfennig Stamp
1. Printing and Design
- Designer & Typographer: J. B. Hirschfeld, Leipzig
- Printing Method: Letterpress (Typographic Printing)
- Format: Imperforate (required manual cutting)
- Typography: Bold numeral “3” in the centre, surrounded by ornate borders
- Language: “DREI” (Three) on the left, “PFENNIGE” (Pfennig) on the right, “SACHSEN” (Saxony) at the top, and “FRANCO” at the bottom
2. Colour Variations and Valuation
The Saxony 3 Pfennig exists in three major colour variations, all of which are extremely valuable and highly sought-after.
Full List of the 1850 Saxony 3 Pfennig Stamps and Their Valuations
Based on the Stanley Gibbons catalogue, here is the complete reference for the three major colour varieties of the 3 Pfennig issue:
- 3 Pfennig Pale Red to Brick-Red is valued at £13,000 mint and £12,000 used.
- 3 Pfennig Cherry-Red is one of the rarest and holds a valuation of £20,000 mint and £21,000 used.
- 3 Pfennig Brownish-Red, another extremely valuable variant, is priced at £20,000 mint and £17,000 used.
🔍 Key Insights:
- The Cherry-Red variant is particularly rare and holds a higher valuation for used copies than mint—an uncommon occurrence in philately.
- The Pale Red to Brick-Red version is the most affordable of the three but still commands a high collector’s value.
- Due to extreme rarity, genuine examples should always be authenticated by BPP (Bund Philatelistischer Prüfer) or similar expert certification bodies.
Why Is the Saxony 3 Pfennig Stamp So Valuable?
1. Germany’s First Stamp and a Piece of Postal History
The 1850 Saxony 3 Pfennig was Germany’s first postage stamp, issued before the unification of Germany (1871). This makes it one of the most historically significant stamps in the country’s philatelic heritage.
2. Extremely Limited Production and Survivability
Due to the low postal rate (3 Pfennig), these stamps were extensively used for mailing letters. As a result, very few mint-condition copies survive today, making them highly rare and valuable.
3. A Highly Sought-After Investment Stamp
With market values exceeding £20,000, this stamp is one of the most expensive classic German issues. It remains a top-tier investment choice for serious collectors and investors in classic philately.
4. Aesthetic Appeal and Unique Design
The bold numeral “3”, combined with Saxony’s classic ornamental border typography, makes this one of the most visually striking stamps of the 19th century.
Expert Tips for Collecting the 1850 Saxony 3 Pfennig Stamp
- Verify the Colour Shade – Cherry-Red and Brownish-Red varieties command higher market prices than the Pale Red to Brick-Red version.
- Examine the Printing Details – The letterpress typography should be crisp, and the imperforate margins should be balanced.
- Seek Expert Authentication – Due to its value, always acquire this stamp with BPP certification to avoid forgeries.
- Look for Well-Centered Examples – Unlike modern perforated stamps, imperforate stamps were hand-cut, making centered copies more desirable.
Conclusion: A Crown Jewel of Classic Philately
The 1850 Saxony 3 Pfennig stamp is not just a collector’s item—it is a landmark in the history of European postage. As Germany’s first-ever postage stamp, it represents a crucial period in postal and political history, symbolizing the early days of standardized mail service in the German states.
With valuations reaching up to £21,000, this stamp remains one of the most valuable classic issues in the world. Whether you are a serious investor or an admirer of historical philately, acquiring a genuine “Sachsen Dreier” is like holding a piece of German history in your hands.
For collectors looking to own a true masterpiece, the 1850 Saxony 3 Pfennig stamp is an ultimate prize—a true crown jewel in European philately.