Saarland postage stamps year 1949

Saarland postage stamps year 1949 MNH

In the years 1947 to 1955, Saarland issued a variety of postage stamps reflecting its unique political status as a French protectorate following World War II. Here’s a detailed overview of the postage stamps from this period:

1947: First Definitive Series

• Release Date: Mid-1947
• Designs: The first definitive stamps featured 17 designs depicting various workers, Mettlach Abbey, and Marshal Ney.
• Currency: Initially denominated in German Reichmarks, these stamps were later replaced by denominations in French Francs in November 1947 as part of the transition to the French postal system.
• Watermarked Paper: Some stamps were printed on paper watermarked with a pattern of curving lines, adding to their collectibility.

1948: Continued Issuance

• New Series: On April 1, 1948, a new series was issued inscribed “SAARPOST”, followed by another series in 1949 labeled simply “SAAR”. These stamps continued to reflect local themes and occupations.

1952: Definitive Set

• A definitive series showcasing various buildings was issued in 1952, marking a significant addition to the postal history of Saarland during this period.

1955: Commemorative Issues

• Notable Stamps: In 1955, several commemorative stamps were released, including those celebrating events like the World Championship cross-country bicycle race and Stamp Day. These stamps often featured distinctive designs and were printed in various colors.

Transition to German Control

• Following the failed Saar Statute referendum in 1955, which indicated a preference among the Saar population to return to Germany, Saarland’s postal system began integrating back into the German system. This transition culminated in January 1957 when the P.T.T. Saarland was transformed into the Oberpostdirektion Saarbrücken of the Deutsche Bundespost.

Overall, the postage stamps of Saarland from 1947 to 1955 not only served practical purposes but also reflected the region’s complex historical and political context during a time of significant change.