German empire year 1875 2 Kr Used stamps

German empire year 1875 2 Kr Used stamps

The 1875 2 kreuzer stamp from the German Empire is a classic early issue that would have seen widespread use in the 1870s. Here are some key details about this used stamp:

Design: Features the reigning German emperor Wilhelm I in profile, facing right. His title “KAISER” is inscribed above.

Color: Printed in a bright reddish-orange shade.

Denominations: The 2 kreuzer value paid the former North German Confederation printed matter rate.

Printing Method: Typographed in sheets using surface printing, not engraved.

Paper/Perforation: Issued on unwatermarked paper and perforated 13.

Cancellations: Used examples will typically have contemporaneous circular datestamp or duplex cancels struck by Imperial German post offices when they were applied to mail in the 1870s.

Rarity: While millions were printed, the 1875 2kr orange is still a scarce classic stamp, especially in fine used condition with neat cancels and full perforations intact after 145+ years.

The 1875 Wilhelm I “Krone & Adler” definitives were the first postage stamps issued for the newly formed German Empire following its victory over France. They remained in use for over a decade until replaced by the subsequent 1889 series.

Nice sound commercial used examples of this workhorse 2kr stamp can fetch $50-100 or more from German philatelists depending on the cancel quality and centering.