Germany Weimar Republic stamps year 1921 160 Pf / 10×10

Germany Weimar Republic stamps year 1921 160 Pf / 10×10 MNH sheet

In 1921, the Weimar Republic issued a prominent 160 Pfennig stamp as part of its first “mixed design” definitive series. This series replaced the long-running Germania designs and depicted the German people at work.

The “Three Workers” (Farmers) Design

The 160 Pfennig stamp is most commonly identified by its depiction of three farm workers: a reaper with a scythe, a woman, and a third worker in the background.

Key Variations & Identification

There are two main versions of this stamp that collectors look for, primarily distinguished by the watermark. During this period, Germany transitioned from the “Lozenges” watermark to a “Network” (mesh) watermark.

1. Standard Issue (1921): Michel #170 with a Lozenges watermark. This is the most common version.
2. Network Watermark Issue (1922): Michel #190 (Scott #169). While the face value remains 160 Pf, this version was issued slightly later on paper with a Network/Mesh watermark. In used condition, the Network watermark version is often significantly more valuable than the Lozenges version.

Philatelic Notes

• Hyperinflation Context: This stamp was issued just as the German Mark began its rapid descent into hyperinflation. By late 1922 and 1923, these “Pfennig” values became nearly useless for postage, leading to them being overprinted with values in the thousands and millions.
• Color Shades: Collectors often distinguish between shades ranging from a dark “myrtle green” to a lighter “turquoise-green.”