The Netherlands continued its philatelic tradition with an exceptional series of stamps from 1872 to 1888, prominently featuring King Willem III. These stamps are celebrated for their variety in perforations and color shades, reflecting the evolution of Dutch postage through the latter half of the 19th century.
Overview of the 1872-1888 Issue
These definitive stamps were designed with meticulous detail and produced using the typography printing method. The stamps were divided into multiple perforation types, denoted by variations in line measurements (e.g., L 14, K 12½:12). Each perforation detail significantly contributes to the stamp’s philatelic value.
Denominations, Variations, and Values
5 Cents (MiNr. 19)
- Blau, Ultramarin (Blue, Ultramarine)
- gez. L 14: €24 (unused), €3 (used)
- gez. K 13½:14: €12 (unused), €0.30 (used)
- gez. K 12½:12: €12 (unused), €0.30 (used)
- gez. K 11½:12: €12 (unused), €0.30 (used)
- gez. K 13½:13¼: €12 (unused), €0.30 (used)
- gez. K 12½ (1884): €12 (unused), €0.30 (used)
7½ Cents (MiNr. 20)
- Lilabrun (15.12.1888): €45 (unused), €20 (used)
10 Cents (MiNr. 21)
- Rosa (Pink)
- gez. L 13½:14: €100 (unused), €4.50 (used)
- gez. K 12½:12: €70 (unused), €2 (used)
- gez. K 11½:12: €70 (unused), €2 (used)
- gez. K 13½:13¼: €75 (unused), €2.50 (used)
- gez. K 12½ (1884): €70 (unused), €1.80 (used)
12½ Cents (MiNr. 22)
- Grau (1.7.1875) (Gray)
- Prices range from €75 to €100 for unused and €2.50 to €3 for used, based on perforation types.
15 Cents (MiNr. 23)
- Braunorange (Brown Orange)
- Prices range from €420 to €600 for unused and €6.50 to €20 for used, depending on perforation.
20 Cents (MiNr. 24)
- Hellgrün (Light Green)
- Prices range from €500 to €900 for unused and €6.50 to €200 for used.
22½ Cents (MiNr. 25)
- Dunkelgrün (15.12.1888) (Dark Green)
- gez. K 12½:12: €100 (unused), €50 (used)
- gez. K 12½ (1884): €350 (unused), €300 (used)
25 Cents (MiNr. 26)
- Violett (Violet)
- Highest value recorded at €1,500 (unused) and €150 (used) for the 1875 issue.
50 Cents (MiNr. 27)
- Olivbraun (Olive Brown)
- Valued between €650 to €850 for unused and €13 to €50 for used.
1 Guilder (MiNr. 28A)
- Dunkellila (15.12.1888) (Dark Lilac) – €60 (unused), €45 (used).
2.50 Guilders (MiNr. 29)
- Rosa/Blau (Pink/Blue) – €1,100 (unused), €130 (used).
Print Quantities
- MiNr. 19: 762,957,950
- MiNr. 20: 1,772,000
- MiNr. 21: 67,241,075
- MiNr. 22: 75,542,900
- MiNr. 23: 20,010,800
- MiNr. 24: 18,187,900
- MiNr. 25: 15,639,000
- MiNr. 26: 15,639,000
- MiNr. 27: 4,238,250
- MiNr. 28: 395,200
- MiNr. 29: 256,500
Philatelic Insights
These stamps demonstrate the technical sophistication of the Dutch postal system, especially with their focus on different perforation types and color distinctions. Variations in perforation measurements significantly influence a stamp’s rarity and value, making these issues essential for collectors.
Have you come across any rare variations of the 1872 Netherlands stamps? Share your stories or photos in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe for more deep dives into the world of stamps and postal history.