Austria empire postage stamps year 1890 – 1900 Used collection

Austria empire postage stamps year 1890 – 1900 Used collection

The postage stamps of the Austro-Hungarian Empire from 1890 to 1900 reflect the nation’s imperial grandeur and its focus on modernization during this period. These stamps showcase a mix of practicality and artistry, reflecting both the empire’s diverse population and its significant role in European politics.

Key Characteristics of Austrian Empire Stamps (1890–1900)

1. Definitive Issues

The definitive stamps from this period were practical and widely used across the empire, including Austria proper and Hungary, though each region issued its own stamps post-1867 under the Dual Monarchy.

• 1890-1899 Franz Joseph I Definitives:
  • Design: Portrait of Emperor Franz Joseph I in profile, surrounded by an ornate frame.
  • Denominations: Values ranged from low to high, printed in distinct colors.
  • Engraving: Intricate detailing of the emperor’s features and frame.
  • Colors: Each denomination had its unique color (e.g., green, red, blue).
  • Watermarks: Most stamps featured “zigzag lines” or other security measures.

2. Newspaper Stamps

Austria issued stamps specifically for newspaper delivery, known as Zeitungsmarken. These stamps were often smaller and less detailed than regular postage stamps.

• Designs:
  • Featured allegorical figures or symbols, such as Mercury, representing speed and communication.
  • Simplistic yet elegant, focusing on functionality.
• Denominations: Very low values (e.g., in Heller) suited for bulk newspaper distribution.

3. Military Post and Occupation Issues

Austria maintained a significant military presence across its empire, requiring specialized stamps.

• Field Post Stamps:
  • Used for military correspondence.
  • Simple designs with clear inscriptions, often marked “K.K. FELDPOST.”
• Occupation Issues:
  • When Austria administered territories temporarily, overprinted or specially issued stamps were used.

4. Special Features

• Perforation:
  • Stamps were perforated during this period, with some variations in perforation sizes, making certain issues collectible.
• Watermarks:
  • Security features included watermarks, often zigzag patterns or simple geometric designs.
• Currency:
  • Denominations transitioned from the older Kreuzer system to the Heller and Krone systems after 1892.
  • Early 1890s issues show the dual currency during the transition.

Notable Issues and Variants

• 1899 Imperial Series:
  • Introduced just before 1900, this series depicted the emperor in a more modern engraving style.
  • Denominations in both Heller and Kronen catered to domestic and international rates.
• Errors and Varieties:
  • Misprints, inverted watermarks, and color variations are highly sought after by collectors.
  • Double impressions and perforation shifts also exist.

Collecting Tips

• Cancellations:
  • Look for clear, legible postmarks from prominent cities like Vienna, Budapest, Prague, and Kraków, which add historical value.
• Condition:
  • Mint-condition stamps from this era are rarer and more valuable than used ones.
• Overprints:
  • Stamps with regional or military overprints are highly collectible and often reflect the political complexity of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.