Bavaria / Bayern stamps year 1920 – 20 Pf. Mint never hinged block
That’s an interesting stamp from a critical period in German philately, as Bavaria was transitioning from an independent state to being fully integrated into the German Reich postal system.
The Bavaria (Bayern) 20 Pfennig stamp from 1920 refers to one of two main issues from that year, both part of the Inflation Period that followed World War I:
1. Overprinted “Deutsches Reich” (Scott #271 / Michel #122)
This is the most likely stamp you are referring to, as it officially concluded the era of Bavarian stamps.
- Year Issued: April 1920
- Design: This stamp is from the final definitive issue of Bavaria, featuring an allegorical image of Mineral Resources and Water Power.
- Color: Typically brown-violet or a similar shade.
- Inscription: It features the overprint “Deutsches Reich” on top of the original Bavarian design.
- Context: This overprint was applied to Bavarian stamps to make them valid for use throughout the German Reich postal system.
💰 Estimated Value (Overprinted 20 Pf.)
The value of this stamp is generally low for common examples, especially used ones, due to the high quantities produced during the inflation era. However, specific plate errors or unused, pristine copies can be worth slightly more.
| Condition | Catalogue Number (Michel) | Dealer Selling Price (Est. USD) |
| Used (Cancelled) | Mi: 122 | $0.50 – $3.00 |
| Mint Never Hinged (MNH) | Mi: 122 | $2.00 – $5.00 |
| With a known Plate Error (PF) | Mi: 122 PF | $5.00 – $15.00+ |
2. “Abschiedsausgabe” (Farewell Issue) (Scott #254 / Michel #181)
The other common 20 Pf. stamp from 1920 is part of the final, new set printed by the Free State of Bavaria before the switch to the overprints.
- Year Issued: January 1920
- Design: Features the portrait of King Ludwig III in the center.
- Color: Typically yellow-green or greenish blue.
- Inscription: Only reads “BAYERN” (Bavaria) and the value.
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