Issue: Germany 1959 Charity Stamp
Type: Stamp
Number of Stamps: 1
Denominations: 7 + 3 PF
Issue Date: 1959
Issued By: Germany Deutsche Post ( Deutschland )
About
The Germany 1959 Charity Stamp is part of a series of semi-postal or charity stamps issued by the German postal service to raise funds for various charitable causes. These stamps are known for their historical and cultural significance, as well as their contribution to fundraising efforts in post-war Germany.
Issuance:
Date of Issue: 1959.
Purpose: Charity stamps were issued with a surcharge added to the face value of the stamp, with the extra funds going toward charitable causes such as social welfare, public health, or youth services.
Design:
Themes: German charity stamps often depict historical figures, cultural landmarks, or scenes of social significance. The 1959 charity stamp may include images related to the specific cause it was supporting, such as welfare programs, reconstruction efforts, or children’s services.
Features: The design could include notable figures from German history, children, or symbolic representations of charity, reflecting the stamp’s purpose of supporting societal causes.
Denomination:
Face Value and Surcharge: Charity stamps have two values printed on them: the postal value (used for postage) and a surcharge that is directed toward a charitable organization. For example, a stamp may have been issued with a postal value of 10 pfennigs and an additional surcharge of 5 pfennigs for charity.
Significance:
Post-War Efforts: These stamps played a crucial role in post-war Germany, helping to fund essential programs during a time of rebuilding and social welfare development.
Social Impact: Proceeds from charity stamps were used to support various initiatives, including aid for war widows and orphans, healthcare programs, and public welfare projects aimed at rebuilding society after the devastation of World War II.
Collectibility:
Philatelic Value: Charity stamps are highly collectible due to their historical and cultural importance. The 1959 stamp is of particular interest to collectors focused on post-war German philately or those who specialize in charity stamps.
Special Features: Collectors may look for mint-condition stamps, first-day covers, or stamps with special postmarks that commemorate the charitable cause being supported.
Cultural and Historical Context:
Charity stamps were a practical way for the German government to involve citizens in the process of reconstruction and social support. By purchasing these stamps, citizens contributed to essential services while also using the stamps for regular postal services.
In summary, the Germany 1959 Charity Stamp is part of an important tradition of semi-postal stamps that raised funds for various charitable efforts in Germany. These stamps not only served a postal function but also contributed to rebuilding and supporting social programs during a pivotal time in Germany’s post-war history.