The historical postage stamps of the German city-state of Lübeck, issued between 1859 and 1864, hold a special place in philatelic collections due to their rarity, aesthetic beauty, and connection to the city’s rich past. Lübeck, a member of the Hanseatic League, issued its first stamps in 1859. These stamps were designed for local postal services and are highly prized among collectors today.

One of the most valuable and iconic stamps from Lübeck’s brief postal history is the **1 Schilling yellow stamp**, issued in 1859. This bright yellow stamp is known for its simple yet elegant design featuring the Lübeck coat of arms, with a double-headed eagle, symbolizing the city’s long-standing autonomy and historical importance. The rarity of this stamp in mint condition, especially with original gum, makes it a sought-after gem. Its striking yellow color and historical significance elevate its status in the world of philately.

Another important stamp from Lübeck is the **4 Schilling green stamp**, also from 1859. This stamp, designed for heavier letters, features the same coat of arms as the 1 Schilling stamp but in a rich green hue. The 4 Schilling green is notable for its rarity and the limited number of surviving examples. It often attracts high prices at auctions due to its significance and the limited issuance during Lübeck’s brief postal independence, which ended when the North German Confederation took over the city’s postal services in 1868.

In 1863, Lübeck issued the **1½ Schilling lilac stamp**, another beautiful and highly prized collectible. This lilac-colored stamp was introduced to cover intermediate postal rates and is notable for its softer hue compared to the vibrant colors of the earlier stamps. Like its predecessors, the 1½ Schilling stamp features the Lübeck coat of arms and exemplifies the elegant simplicity typical of early German stamps.

These stamps from Lübeck not only represent a brief moment in the city's history but also provide a tangible connection to the era of independent city-states in Germany. Today, they remain highly valued by collectors for their rarity, beauty, and historical significance.