Switzerland year 1878/ 1910 Used stamps lot

Switzerland year 1878/ 1910 Used stamps lot

Switzerland issued many desirable and collectible stamps in the late 19th and early 20th century period from 1878 to 1910. Here are some of the key used Swiss stamp issues from those years that would be prized by collectors:

1878-1881 “Seated Helvetia” Definitives:

• Featured the iconic allegorical figure Helvetia seated with the Swiss cross behind her
• Engraved designs printed in green, yellow, red and other colors for various denominations
• The imperforate and perforated stamps in used condition are highly sought

1882-1907 “Standing Helvetia” Regular Issues:

• Helvetia allegory now in standing/upright pose holding the Swiss coat of arms
• Printed using finely engraved plates displaying incredible detail
• Used mid-to-high value bi-colored stamps from 25c to 3fr can be quite valuable

1900 “U.P.U.” Universal Postal Union Commemorative:

• Special design released for the Universal Postal Union jubilee conference in Bern
• Center vignette of two hands shaking flanked by Swiss and UPU emblems
• Scarce on commercial cover or with neat cancel strikes

1908-1910 “Helvetia with Sword” Issues:

• New definitive series showed Helvetia standing with upraised sword
• Denominations from 1c to 3fr, all engraved and printed in multiple color combinations
• Well-centered used high values like the 3fr are premium items

Switzerland is renowned amongst philatelists for the incredibly intricate engraved designs that adorn many of its “classic” stamp issues from 1878 to the early 1900s. Used examples with neat cancels and nice centering can command high prices, especially for the higher bi-color values up to 3 francs.