Introduction
In 1950, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) issued a remarkable set of stamps to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Academy of Sciences in Berlin. This series featured portraits of prominent scientists who made significant contributions to various fields, such as mathematics, physics, philosophy, and humanities. With its detailed lithographic printing and historical significance, this set remains a highly sought-after issue among philatelists.
This post explores the history, design, varieties, and market value of this stunning set.
The Academy of Sciences Berlin: A Legacy of Knowledge
The Academy of Sciences in Berlin was founded in 1700 by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz and became a hub for pioneering research in multiple disciplines. Over the years, it attracted leading intellectuals, shaping the foundations of modern science and philosophy. The 1950 stamp series honored some of these influential figures, celebrating their contributions and legacy.
Design and Production
- Issue Date: July 10, 1950
- Printing Method: Lithography
- Watermark: R2
- Perforation: 13×12½
- Designer: G. Kreische
- Number of Stamps: 10
- Denominations & Colors: Each stamp features a portrait of a scientist in an oval frame, printed in different colors.
Stamps and Their Historical Figures
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1pf – Leonard Euler (Grey)
- Leonhard Euler (1707-1783) was a Swiss mathematician and physicist. His work in calculus, graph theory, and mechanics had a profound impact on mathematical sciences.
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5pf – Alexander von Humboldt (Green)
- Alexander von Humboldt (1769-1859) was a geographer and naturalist. His explorations and scientific observations laid the foundation for modern climatology and ecology.
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6pf – Theodor Mommsen (Violet)
- Theodor Mommsen (1817-1903) was a historian and Nobel Prize winner, recognized for his work on Roman history.
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8pf – Wilhelm von Humboldt (Red-Brown)
- Wilhelm von Humboldt (1767-1835) was a philosopher, linguist, and founder of the Humboldtian model of higher education.
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10pf – Hermann von Helmholtz (Grey-Green)
- Hermann von Helmholtz (1821-1894) was a physicist and physician known for his work in optics, acoustics, and thermodynamics.
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12pf – Max Planck (Blue)
- Max Planck (1858-1947) was the father of quantum mechanics. His work in physics revolutionized the understanding of atomic and subatomic processes.
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16pf – Jacob Grimm (Turquoise-Blue)
- Jacob Grimm (1785-1863) was a philologist and folklorist, best known for Grimm’s Fairy Tales.
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20pf – Walther Nernst (Reddish Purple)
- Walther Nernst (1864-1941) was a chemist and physicist, famous for his Third Law of Thermodynamics.
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24pf – Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (Rose-Red)
- Leibniz (1646-1716) was a philosopher and mathematician, co-developer of calculus.
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50pf – Adolf von Harnack (Ultramarine)
- Adolf von Harnack (1851-1930) was a theologian and historian who contributed extensively to the study of early Christianity.
Varieties and Market Value
This series has become a favorite among collectors due to its detailed portraits, historical significance, and limited issue.
Pricing for Mint and Used Copies
(Values from Stanley Gibbons Catalogue)
- 1pf Grey (Euler) – £6.50 mint | £2.50 used
- 5pf Green (A. von Humboldt) – £9.00 mint | £6.25 used
- 6pf Violet (T. Mommsen) – £18.00 mint | £6.25 used
- 8pf Red-Brown (W. von Humboldt) – £21.00 mint | £12.50 used
- 10pf Grey-Green (H. von Helmholtz) – £18.00 mint | £12.50 used
- 12pf Blue (M. Planck) – £14.50 mint | £5.00 used
- 16pf Turquoise-Blue (J. Grimm) – £26.00 mint | £25.00 used
- 20pf Reddish Purple (W. Nernst) – £23.00 mint | £20.00 used
- 24pf Rose-Red (G. W. Leibniz) – £23.00 mint | £5.00 used
- 50pf Ultramarine (A. von Harnack) – £35.00 mint | £25.00 used
- Complete Set (10 stamps) – £170 mint | £110 used
These values reflect the rarity of certain denominations, with the 50pf stamp being the highest-priced in the set.
Rarity and Collectibility
- Condition Matters: Stamps in mint condition with original gum command higher prices.
- Used Stamps: Some stamps, especially higher denominations, are rarely found used.
- Market Trends: Prices have gradually increased, making this a solid investment for collectors of German postal history.
Conclusion
The 1950 Academy of Sciences Berlin issue stands out as a tribute to intellectuals who shaped modern thought. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a scientist, or a philatelist, this stamp series captures the essence of knowledge and progress. Its detailed engraving, historical figures, and limited print run make it one of the most fascinating issues in East German philately.
If you own this set or plan to acquire it, consider preserving it well—it is not just a collector’s item but a piece of history.