Bavaria Bayern year 1849 – 6 Kr Used stamp

Bavaria Bayern year 1849 – 6 Kr Used stamp

Bavaria (Bayern in German) issued its own stamps from 1849 until 1920, when it became part of the unified German postal system. Here’s an overview of Bavarian stamps:

1. First Issues (1849-1862):
   • First German state to issue stamps
   • “Schwarzer Einser” (Black One) of 1849 – highly prized by collectors
   • Numeral designs in square frames
2. Coat of Arms Issues (1867-1911):
   • Various designs featuring the Bavarian coat of arms
   • Different denominations and colors
3. Ludwig III Issues (1914-1920):
   • Portrait stamps of King Ludwig III
   • Last royal issues before Bavaria joined the German Reich

Key Points:

1. Printing Methods:
   • Early issues were typographed
   • Later issues used lithography and recess printing
2. Watermarks:
   • Various watermarks used, including lozenges and crosses
3. Perforations:
   • Early issues imperforate
   • Later issues with various perforation gauges
4. Specialties:
   • Numerous overprints and surcharges
   • Official stamps for government use
   • Railway stamps for parcel post
5. Rarity:
   • Early imperforate issues, especially used on cover, can be very valuable
   • Some overprints and errors are highly sought after
6. End of Bavarian Stamps:
   • Last issues in 1920 before joining the German Reich postal system
7. Collecting Interest:
   • Popular area for specialists in German States
   • The long period of issue provides a wide range of collecting possibilities

Bavarian stamps are known for their classic designs and historical significance as some of the earliest German stamps. They offer a rich field for philatelic study, from classic issues to more modern 20th-century stamps. As with many classic areas, authentication is important for high-value items, especially early imperforates and rare overprints.