Northern Germany Confederation stamps year 1868 Rouletted 8½-11½

Northern Germany Confederation stamps year 1868 Rouletted 8½-11½

Northern Germany Confederation stamps, year 1868, Rouletted 8½-11½—identify the first set of general issue postage stamps for the North German Postal District (Norddeutscher Postbezirk).

Here are the key points about these stamps:

• Issuance: They were issued on January 1, 1868.
• Perforation: They were originally issued rouletted with a gauge of 8½ to 11½, and often feature compound roulettes (different gauges on different sides). This is characteristic of the first issue, as later issues in 1869 were perforated.
• Design: The stamps feature a large numeral of value in the center and are inscribed “NORDDEUTSCHER POSTBEZIRK” at the top.
• Currencies/Districts: The North German Confederation used two main currencies for its postal system, reflecting the regions it covered:
  • Groschen (Gr.) and Thaler (Th.) for the Northern District (e.g., Prussia, Saxony).
  • Kreuzer (Kr.) and Gulden for the Southern District (e.g., southern parts of the territory).

Denominations in the 1868 Rouletted Issue:

These stamps are considered classic German philately, representing the transitional period before the establishment of the German Empire in 1871. The value of a specific stamp depends heavily on its denomination, color shade, condition (unused or used), presence of original gum, quality of the roulette, and the clarity and type of cancellation. Some denominations, particularly the lower values, are relatively common, while others (like the 5 Gr. or 7 Kr.) can be more valuable,