Germany Weimar Republic year 1921 20m postage stamps

Germany Weimar Republic year 1921 20m postage stamps MNH block

In 1921, during the early Weimar Republic, Germany issued several 20 Mark (20m) stamps. This was a transitional period before the hyperinflation of 1923, so these stamps are relatively large and colorful compared to the later “inflation” surcharges.

There are three primary versions you might have, distinguished by their design:

1. The “Plowman” (Standard Issue)

This is the most common 20m stamp from 1921. It was part of a definitive series depicting various workers and trades.

• Design: A farmer (plowman) with a horse and plow in a field.
• Colors: Indigo (dark blue) and Green.
• Catalog Numbers: Scott #155 / Michel #176.
• Value: Very common. Mint (MNH) copies usually sell for $1.00 – $3.00, while used copies are often found in bulk sets for cents.

2. The “Posthorn” (Two-Tone)

While the famous single-color Posthorns came in 1922, a bi-colored version was released in late 1921.

• Design: A large central Posthorn (the symbol of the German mail) surrounded by stars.
• Colors: Violet and Orange.
• Catalog Numbers: Scott #150 (if watermark is Lozenges) / Scott #178 (if watermark is Network).
• Value: Generally $2.00 – $5.00 depending on the watermark type and condition.

3. The “Munich Industrial Fair” (Commemorative)

Technically released in early 1922 but often associated with 1921 collections, this is a more “square” and ornate stamp.

• Design: The Arms of Munich (a monk/Münchner Kindl).
• Colors: Lilac-rose or Pink.
• Catalog Number: Scott #217 / Michel #204.
• Value: Around $2.00 – $4.00 for a clean mint copy.

Philatelic Tip: Watermarks

To properly identify Weimar stamps, you often need to look at the watermark (hold the stamp up to a light or place it face down on a dark surface):

• Waffle/Network: Lines crossing like a fence (Standard for late 1921).
• Lozenges: Diamond shapes (Common for early 1921).