Introduction to Lübeck’s Postal History
Lübeck, a Free City since 1226, played a significant role in the Hanseatic League, a powerful economic and trade alliance in Northern Europe. In 1241, Lübeck allied with Hamburg, strengthening its influence in regional commerce and postal services. Over time, Lübeck developed its own postage system, issuing stamps that remain highly valued by collectors today.
The city’s postage stamps were first issued in 1859 and remained in circulation until Lübeck’s postal system was absorbed into the North German Confederation in 1868. These stamps are famous for their intricate designs, historical significance, and rarity. Due to their high value, forgeries and reprints are common, making expert identification essential.
Understanding Lübeck’s Currency System
Before Germany adopted a unified currency, Lübeck used its own system. The currency on Lübeck’s stamps is based on:
- 16 Schilling = 1 Mark
Collectors should be aware of this denomination system, especially when evaluating the value of early Lübeck stamps.
1859 Issue – The First Lübeck Stamps
Lübeck’s first stamps were issued on January 1, 1859, featuring the city’s double-headed eagle coat of arms. These stamps were printed using lithography by H. G. Rahtgens in Lübeck.
Key Features of the 1859 Issue:
- Watermark: Myosotis flowers
- Imperforate
- Typography: Lithographed
- Design: Lübeck’s double-headed eagle, symbolizing its independence
Catalogue Listings and Values:
- ½ schilling, slate-lilac – £3,750 mint, £3,250 used
- 1 schilling, orange – £4,000 mint, £3,250 used
- 2 schilling, brown – £180 mint, £400 used
- Error: “ZWEI EIN HALB” (misprint) – £1,600 mint, £12,000 used
- 2½ schilling, rose-red – £350 mint, £1,600 used
- 2½ schilling, rose – £350 mint, £1,600 used
- 4 schilling, deep green – £140 mint, £1,000 used
- 4 schilling, yellow-green – Prepared but never issued (valued at £50)
Notable Errors and Rarities
One of the most famous errors of Lübeck’s 1859 issue is the “ZWEI EIN HALB” (Two and a Half) misprint. This rare variety commands an exceptionally high price, particularly in used condition.
Additionally, No. 3a occurs on positions 96 and 97 in a sheet of 100, making it a known positional variety among collectors.
1862 Issue – A New Series
A new issue followed on April 5, 1862, with subtle changes from the 1859 release.
Key Features of the 1862 Issue:
- No watermark
- Still imperforate
- Different paper quality
Catalogue Listings and Values:
- ½ schilling, dull lilac – £70 mint, £2,500 used
- 1 schilling, orange-yellow – £140 mint, £2,500 used
These stamps followed the same basic design as the 1859 issue but were printed on a different paper stock, with slight colour variations.
Reprints and Forgeries of Lübeck Stamps
Because Lübeck’s stamps are highly valuable, forgeries and reprints are common. Collectors should exercise extreme caution when acquiring these stamps.
Reprints from 1871
- All five values of Lübeck’s early stamps were reprinted in 1871 on thin, white wove unwatermarked paper.
- These reprints have smooth white gum.
- The colour shades of these reprints differ slightly from the originals.
Modern Forgeries
- One of the most common indicators of forgeries is the ornament at the top of the design.
- Genuine stamps feature two dots separated by a horizontal line.
- Forgeries display a short horizontal line instead of two dots.
Identifying Genuine Lübeck Stamps
To avoid purchasing fakes, collectors should check for:
- Watermarks (1859 issue)
- Correct typography and ink shades
- Properly defined embossed areas
- Errors or unique positioning varieties
- Authentic postmarks (if used condition)
Conclusion: A Valuable and Historic Philatelic Series
Lübeck’s stamps provide an intriguing collecting opportunity due to their historical significance, limited issuance, and high value. The 1859 and 1862 issues, though visually similar, feature distinct differences that collectors must carefully analysed. Given the prevalence of forgeries and reprints, expert authentication is crucial when acquiring these rare pieces.
For collectors seeking investment-worthy classic stamps, Lübeck’s issues remain some of the most sought-after and fascinating stamps from the German states.