From 1952 to 1958, West Berlin issued numerous postage stamps reflecting themes of famous Berliners, architecture, culture, and political symbols:
- The stamps from this period initially bore the inscription “Deutsche Post,” which changed in 1952 to “Deutsche Post Berlin” and in 1955 to “Deutsche Bundespost Berlin.”
- Key issues included the “Famous Berliners” series from 1952-53 with 10 definitive stamps, showcasing notable personalities from Berlin’s history.
- Other themes included iconic Berlin buildings such as Tegel Schloss, Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.
- Notable commemoratives during this time featured the Freedom Bell, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, and various cultural and historic anniversaries.
- The denominations ranged from low pfennig values up to several marks, catering to various postal rates.
- The stamps are widely collected today, with some sets available mint never hinged (MNH).
This set marks West Berlin’s post-WWII philatelic identity during the early Cold War era before the Berlin wall construction in 1961 and eventual reunification.
