The stamps of the former German state of Bavaria (Bayern) from 1849 to 1862 hold a significant place in philatelic history, not only for their rarity but also for their historical value as some of the earliest examples of postage stamps in Germany. Bavaria was the first German state to issue its own stamps, and this period is especially known for a series of iconic issues that are prized by collectors worldwide.

One of the most famous and earliest of these is the **1 Kreuzer rose** stamp, issued in 1849. This stamp, printed in a delicate rose color, was primarily used for local mail within Bavaria. It is significant as Bavaria’s first-ever postage stamp, making it a key piece in the history of European philately. The design is simple yet elegant, featuring a bold numeral in the center, indicative of the denomination. Its historic value and scarcity have made it one of the most sought-after Bavarian stamps among collectors.

Issued alongside the 1 Kreuzer rose were the **6 Kreuzer brown** and **9 Kreuzer light brown** stamps, also in 1849. These were designed for heavier or long-distance mail. The 6 Kreuzer brown stamp was used for intermediate weight letters, while the 9 Kreuzer light brown was intended for heavier or international mail. Both stamps feature the same numeral design as the 1 Kreuzer, but in varying colors, offering a fascinating study in early German postal rates and color variation.

In 1862, a new issue series introduced the **6 Kreuzer blue** and the **12 Kreuzer light green** stamps. The **6 Kreuzer blue**, with its deep blue shade, replaced the earlier brown issue. The **12 Kreuzer light green** was introduced to accommodate higher postage rates for long-distance or international letters. These stamps are particularly prized for their vibrant and uncommon colors, which stand out in the relatively muted palette of early European stamps.

All these stamps are not just rare; they are highly valuable due to their historical significance. As some of the earliest issues in the German-speaking world, they represent a key transition in postal history from state-operated mail systems to the more modern forms of communication we know today. Their unique colors, limited print runs, and the evolving postal rates they reflect make them treasures for philatelists.