Germany DDR stamps year 1987 Sports Festival blocks special postmarks MNH
In 1987, East Germany (DDR) issued a highly celebrated series for the VIII. Gymnastics and Sports Festival and the XI. Children and Youth Spartakiade held in Leipzig.
These festivals were massive events in the DDR, and the postal service marked them with a series of six stamps, a souvenir sheet, and highly collectible special postmarks.
1. The Stamp Series (Mi. 3111–3116)
The core set features various athletic disciplines, emphasizing the “mass participation” aspect of socialist sports culture.
| Michel # | Value | Sport Depicted |
| 3111 | 5 Pf | Children’s Games (Ball games) |
| 3112 | 10 Pf | Rhythmic Gymnastics |
| 3113 | 20 Pf | Handball |
| 3114 | 35 Pf | Canoeing / Kayaking |
| 3115 | 40 Pf | Hurdles / Track & Field |
| 3116 | 50 Pf | Mass Gymnastics (Synchronized display) |
2. The Souvenir Sheet (Block 87)
The most notable part of this issue is Michel Block 87 (Scott #2619).
- Design: It features a single high-value stamp (85 Pf) depicting Tug-of-War (Tauziehen).
- The Border: The surrounding margin of the sheet depicts a panoramic view of the massive stadium crowds and the ceremonial flags typical of the Leipzig festivals.
3. Special Postmarks (Sonderstempel)
Because Leipzig was the “City of Sports” during this event, numerous special cancellations were used. Collectors prioritize these over standard “CTO” (Cancelled to Order) marks.
- Location: Most bear the city name LEIPZIG.
- The “First Day” Mark: Usually dated July 21, 1987, often featuring the festival’s official logo (a stylized gymnast/flower shape).
- Event Cancellations: During the actual festival week (late July), mobile post offices at the stadiums used unique handstamps depicting specific sports or the festival motto.
- ETBs (First Day Sheets): The DDR issued official “Ersttagsblatt” (ETB) folders for this event, which contain the stamps pre-cancelled with these special decorative marks.
