The postage stamps of the German State of Saxony (Sachsen) from 1855 to 1867 are highly regarded by philatelists due to their rarity, historical significance, and value. Saxony, one of the oldest and most prominent German states, began issuing its own postage stamps before the formation of the German Empire in 1871. These early Saxon stamps are a testament to a bygone era in European postal history.
The first Saxon stamp, issued in 1850, is known as the "Sachsendreier" (Saxon Three), named for its denomination of three Pfennigs. It features a simple yet elegant design with a prominent numeral "3" in the center, surrounded by an ornamental frame. The Sachsendreier is one of the rarest stamps in the world, with only a few surviving examples, making it a coveted piece in any collection. In fact, one of the finest specimens was sold for several hundred thousand euros at auction.
Between 1855 and 1867, Saxony issued several more stamps, all of which are considered highly collectible today. These stamps were issued in various denominations and were typically printed in shades of blue, green, and brown. One notable design element is the inclusion of the Saxon coat of arms or portraits of royal figures such as King Johann of Saxony, giving them a distinct historical and regional flavor.
The significance of Saxon stamps lies not only in their design but also in their reflection of the political and economic conditions of the time. As Saxony was a member of the German Confederation, these stamps serve as valuable historical documents that represent the pre-unification postal system of Germany. After Saxony joined the North German Confederation in 1867, it ceased issuing its own stamps, marking the end of an era.
Today, Saxon stamps from 1855-1867 are highly sought after by collectors, with rare examples fetching impressive prices at auction. Their combination of rarity, historical context, and artistic design make them cherished artifacts of 19th-century European postal history.