NAZI GERMANY
POSTMARKS
1938
DEUTSCHE SAMMLER GEMEINSCHAFT SAMMLERSCHAU
(8th Jan 1938)
This postmark was used to advertise the "German collector community collector's show" held in Halle in January 1938
Halle Collector's Show special postmark
SCHWÄBISCHE PHILATELIC EXHIBITION STUTTGART
(8th to 16th Jan 1938)
1. Schwäbische Philatelic Exhibition Stuttgart
| 1. This postmark celebrated the Schwäbische Philatelic Exhibition held in Stuttgart between the 8th and 16th January 1938. It is inscribed "STUTTGART - STADT DER AUSLANDSDEUTSCHEN - 1. Schwäbische Postwertzeichen Ausstellung 8-16.1.38" - "STUTTGART - CITY OF THE FOREIGN GERMAN - 1. Schwäbische Postwertzeichen Exhibition 8-16.1.38". |
STAMP DAY
(9th Jan 1938)
There is a souvenir sheet related to the day of the stamp" issue for 1938. Special cancels were used in 12 different cities as follows: BERLIN, BREMEN, BRESLAU, ERFURT, FRANKFURT (MAIN), FRIEDBERG (HESS), LEIPZIG MÜNCHEN, REGENSBERG, STETTIN, WEIMAR and WIESBADEN.
1. BERLIN W62 - Special Postmark.
2. BERLIN W62 - Alternative postmark.
3. BERLIN FAHRBARES POSTAMT - Special postmark.
| 1. BERLIN W62. |
| 2. BERLIN W62 |
| 3. BERLIN FAHRBARES POSTAMT |
1. CHEMNITZ - Special Postmark.
2. DESSAU - Special postmark.
3. FRANKFURT (ODER)- Special postmark
From my Collection
| 1. CHEMNITZ. |
| 2. DESSAU. |
| 3. FRANKFURT (ODER). |
1. FRANKFURT (MAIN) - Special Postmark.
2. FRANKFURT (MAIN) - Alternative Postmark.
3. KASSEL - Special postmark.
| 1. FRANKFURT (MAIN). |
| 2. FRANKFURT (MAIN). |
| 3. KASSEL. |
1. LEIPZIG - Special Postmark.
2. MÜNCHEN - Special Postmark.
3. REGENSBURG - Special postmark.
| 1. LEIPZIG. |
| 2. MÜNCHEN. |
| 3. REGENSBURG. |
1. WIESBADEN - Special Postmark.
| 1. WIESBADEN. |
50th ANNIVERSARY BERLIN STAMP CLUB
(17th Jan 1938)
This special cancel commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the Berlin Philatelic Club in 1938 (1888 to 1938).
Berlin W62
"17-1-38"
"17-1-38"
CENTENARY of the MAINZ CARNIVAL
(Jan 1938)
1. Mainz Carnival, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This postmark advertises the centenary of the Mainz Carnival. |
FIVE YEARS of NAZI GOVERNMENT
(30th Jan 1938)
This postmark celebrates the anniversary of Hitler's Chancellorship and was celebrated with torchlight parades in many German towns. There was also an official postcard that was issued to commemorate the 5th anniversary. This postmark was designed by Erich Stahl and was used only on the 30th January 1938 in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich, Nuremberg and Stuttgart.
1. 5 Years of NSDAP Government.
2. 5 Years of NSDAP Government.
3. 5 Years of NSDAP Government.
| 1. This postmark was used to commemorate 5 years of NAZI rule. It is inscribed "BERLIN - Zum 30 Januar - 30.1.1938". |
| 2. This postmark was used to commemorate 5 years of NAZI rule. It is inscribed "HAMBURG - Zum 30 Januar - 30.1.1938". |
| 3. This postmark was used to commemorate 5 years of NAZI rule. It is inscribed "MUNCHEN - Zum 30 Januar - 30.1.1938". |
INTERNATIONAL WINTERSPORTS WEEK
(30th Jan 1938)
Garmisch Wintersports Week, Special Postmark
From my Collection
There were several different special postmarks used at this event, all of which feature different winter sports including bobsleigh, hockey, figure skating and skijumping.
BERLIN-NEUKÖLLN STAMP EXHIBITION
(5th Feb 1938)
1. Berlin-Neukölln Stamp Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. This postmark advertises the Berlin-Neukölln Stamp Exhibition held in February 1938. |
POSTAGE STAMP EXHIBITION
(6th Feb 1938)
This was the 1st Postal Show sponsored by the "Strength Though Joy" Collector's Group, Ortsgruppe Charlottenburg and there is a related postcard.
1. Berlin - Postage Stamp Exhibition.
| 1. On 6th Feb 1938 a Postage Stamp Exhibition for the German stamp collector community was held in Berlin. Like many of these stamp exhibitions it was organised by the KdF 'Strength through joy' organisation. |
100th ANNIVERSARY ENGINEERING SCHOOL
(8th Feb 1938)
This special cancel appears to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Glass Industry Engineering School in Ilmenau.
ILMENAU
"8-2-38"
"8-2-38"
INTERNATIONALE AUTOMOBIL MOTORAD AUSTELLUNG
(18th Feb to 6th Mar 1938)
Besides the special postmark there was also a souvenir sheet issued at the event.
1. International Automobile Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. This postmark advertises the International Automobile Exhibition held in Berlin. The design shows an autombile racing towards the exhibition venue in Berlin. |
HEALTH RESORT - THURINGIA
(26th Feb 1938)
This special cancel advertises the facilities at the "Healing Climatic Health Resort in Friedrichroda in the Thuringian Forest". The trees pictured on the cancel are fir trees which are very common in the nearby hills around Friedrichroda.
FRIEDRICHRODA
"26.2.38"
"26.2.38"
STAMP EXHIBITION FOR THE W.H.W, ERFURT
(27th Feb 1938)
1. Erfurt Stamp Exhibition.
| 1. This postmark was used to commemorate the Erfurt Stamp Exhibition organised by the W.H.W (Winter Hilfs Werk) organisation - 27.2.1938. The postmark shows a housewife with a basket of laundry greeting her two children. This was very symbolic and reflected the Nazi Party's policy of keeping women at home to have children and raise a family. |
BERLIN EXHIBITION of DEGENERATE ART
(Feb to Apr 1938)
Berlin Exhibition of Degenerate Art, Special Postmark
| 1. The "Exhibition of Degenerate Art" was a touring exhibition which started in Munich on 19th July 1937. In Berlin it was housed at the "Haus der Kunst" on Koenigsplatz and featured around 650 confiscated artworks from over 30 German museums. The special postmark reads "Austellung 'Entartete kunst' haus der kunst." - 'Exhibition "Degenerate Art" house of art.' |
VDA HALLE (SAALE)
(5th Mar 1938)
VDA, Slogan Postmark. More information required.
From my Collection
The VDA (Volksbund fur das Deutschtum im Ausland) or 'League of German Culture' was an organisation who's purpose was to promote German culture and language around the world. The League was orginially created in 1881 by Julius Scharlach and was later taken over by the Nazi's in 1933.
BERLIN-ZEHLENDORF STAMP EXHIBITION
(13th Mar 1938)
Berlin-Zehlendorf, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This special postmark advertises the Berlin-Zehlendorf Stamp Exhibition and is inscribed "BERLIN-ZEHLENDORF 1 - Briefmarken-Werbeschau D.S.G Ortsge Zehlendorf N.S. Gemeinschaft Kraft d. Freude". This is another Nazi organised "Strength Through Joy" social program. |
OSNABRÜCK STAMP EXHIBITION
(26th and 27th Mar 1938)
Osnabrück Stamp Exhibition
From my Collection
ESSEN REICHS GARTENSCHAU
(23rd Mar 1938)
Essen Garden Show, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This special postmark advertises the Essen April-October Reichs Garden show in 1938. |
BERLIN STAMP EXHIBITION
(1st to 3rd Apr 1938)
Berlin Stamp Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. The Berlin Stamp Exhibition was held between the 1st and 3rd of April 1938 at the Berlin Zoo. The postmark is inscribed "philatelisten zeigen postwertzeichen austellung im zoo" - 'Philatelists show postage stamp exhibition at the zoo'. |
ANSCHLUSS
(German union with Austria)
(8th Apr 1938)
Several souvenir sheets and postcards were also issued to commemorate the Anschluss with Austria.
1. Union of Germany and Austria.
2. Union of Germany and Austria.
3. Union of Germany and Austria.
| 1. This postmark was used only on the 9th April in vienna to commemorate the union of Germany and Austria (Anschluss). It is inscribed "Tag des Groβdeutschen-Reichs - Wien 9.April 1938" - "The day of the Greater German Empire - Vienna 9th April 1938". It can be found in both black and red/violet ink. |
| 2. This postmark was used only on the 9th April in vienna to commemorate the union of Germany and Austria (Anschluss). It is inscribed "Tag des Groβdeutschen-Reichs - Wien 9.April 1938" - "The day of the Greater German Empire - Vienna 9th April 1938". It can be found in both black and red/violet ink. |
| 3. This special slogan postmark was also used to commemorate the union of Germany and Austria (Anschluss). It is inscribed "AM 10.April dem führer Dein "Ja" - "On the 10th April "The leader your "yes". |
4. Union of Germany and Austria.
5. Union of Germany and Austria.
6. Union of Germany and Austria.
| 4. This special slogan postmark was used in Vienna to commemorate the union of Germany and Austria (Anschluss). It is inscribed "Ein volk - Ein Reich - Ein Führer - 10.April 1938 - Wien" - "One people - One Empire - One Leader". It also can be found in black and violet ink and was only used on the 10th April in Vienna.. |
| 5. This cachet postmark was used in many Austrian towns as Hitler visited them making propaganda speaches to celebrate the Anschluss. This one was used in Graz. |
| 6. This cachet postmark was used in Salzburg as Hitler visited Austria making propaganda speaches to celebrate the Anschluss. This one was is inscribed "Der führer sprichf - Salzburg 6.7. April 1938" - 'The leader speaks - Salzburg 6.7. April 1938' |
The "LIPOSTA" POSTAL EXHIBITION
(9th to 10th Apr 1938)
Liposta Postal Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. The Liposta Postal Exhibition was held between 9th and 10th April 1938 in Berlin. The event was sponsored by the Berlin-Lichtenrade postage stamp collectors club. |
GERMAN AMATEUR BOXING CHAMPIONSHIP
(14th Apr 1938)
This special cancel was used to commemorate the German Amateur Boxing Championships held in Frankfurt in April 1938.
Frankfurt
"14-4-38"
"14-4-38"
HITLER's 49th BIRTHDAY
(20th Apr 1938)
1. BERLIN - Hitler's Birthday.
2. BRAUNAU AM INN - Hitler's Birthday.
3. LINZ - Hitler's Birthday.
| 1. Commemorating Hitler's 49th Birthday on 20th April 1938. The postmark is inscribed "BERLIN Des Führers Geburtstag 20.April.1938". Berlin was a significant place for one of the special postmarks as it is the capital of Germany. |
| 2. Another similar postmark from BRAUNAU AM INN celebrating Hitler's 49th Birthday. Inscribed "BRAUNAU AM INN - DES FÜHRERS GEBURTSTAG 20.APRIL 1938". Braunau was chosen for a special postmark as it was Hitler's birthpace. |
| 3. Linz used a similar postmark celebrating Hitler's 49th Birthday. Inscribed "LINZ - GEBURTSTAG DES FÜHRERS 20.APRIL 1938". Linz was an important city as it was Hitler's adopted hometown before he emigrated to Germany. |
4. MÜNCHEN - Hitler's Birthday.
5. NÜRNBERG - Hitler's Birthday.
6. WIEN - Hitler's Birthday
| 4. This special postmark from München also commemorates Hitler's 49th Birthday on 20th April 1938. The postmark is inscribed "MÜNCHEN hauptstadt der Bewegung - Geburtstag des Führers 20.April.1938". München was another significant city for the special postmark as it was the birth place of the Nazi Party. |
| 5. Another similar postmark from NÜRNBERG celebrating Hitler's 49th Birthday. Inscribed "NÜRNBERG - DIE STADT DER REICHSPARTEITAG - GEBURTSTAG DES FÜHRERS 20.APRIL 1938". Nürnburg was the city chosen to hold the annual Nazi party rally's so it too had it's own special postmark. |
| 6. Vienna also had it's own special postmark to celebrate Hitler's 49th Birthday. It is inscribed "WIEN - DES FÜHRERS GEBURTSTAG 20.APRIL 1938". Vienna was also significant in Hitler's early life so it too had a special postmark to celebrate his 49th birthday. |
7. GRAZ - Hitler's Birthday.
| 7. This special postmark from Graz (Austria) also commemorates Hitler's 49th Birthday. The postmark is inscribed "GRAZ Geburstag des führer 20.April.1938". |
REICHSLUFTSCHUTZBUND
(29th Apr 1938)
This special postmark was used for one day only on the 29th April 1938 and was used to commemorate 5 years of the R.L.B 'Reichsluftschutzbund' (Air Defence League). There were also several slogan postmarks used.
Slogan Postmark "Luftschutz ist nationale Pficht Werdet Mitglied im Reichsluftschutzbund".
Special Postmark "MUNICH - 1933-1938 - 29.4.38 - 5 Jahre Reichsluftschutzbund"
Slogan Postmark.
The special postmark was used in a number of cities.
REICHSWALTUNG DER N.S.U'
(30th Apr 1938)
Reichswaltung, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This postmark is inscribed "BERLIN SO 36 - Reichswaltung der N.S.U - 30.4.38 |
GERMANY Vs ENGLAND
INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL FRIENDLY
(14th May 1938)
BERLIN-CHARLOTTENBURG International Football Friendly, Slogan Postmark
| 1. Germany hosted England to an International friendly football match at the Berliner Olympiastadion, Berlin, Germany on 14th May 1938. Unfortunately for the fanatical German home supporters the English won the match by 6 goals to 3 in front of 120,000 cheering fans. The German goal scorers were Rudolf Gellesch (20), Josef Gauchel (44) and Hans Pesser (77). The English goalscorers were Cliff Bastin (15), Jackie Robinson (26) and (49), Frank Broome (29), Stanley Matthews (42) and Leonard Goulden (85). |
SOLDIER'S DAY
(15th May 1938)
As well as this special postmark there was also a commemorative postcard used to celebrate Soldier's Day in 1938.
Soldatentag - Soldier's Day, Slogan Postmark used in Munich.
From my Collection
BREMEN "KEY TO THE WORLD" EXHIBITION
(25th May 19380
Aside from the postmark below there was also an private postcard for this event
Bremen "Key to the World" Exhibition, Slogan Postmark
| 1. The "Key to the World" Exhibition was held in Bremen in May 1938. |
GERMAN FLIGHT
(22nd to 29th May 1938)
This postmark commemorates the 1938 "German Flight" sponsored by the NSFK (Nationalsozialistisches Flieger Korps) Berlin.
Vienna "German Flight", Special Postmark
| 1. Vienna "German Flight", Special Postmark. |
The NATIONAL COLONIAL CONFERENCE
(26th to 29th May 1938)
National Colonial Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. The National Colonial Conference "Africa Calls". |
1st INTERNATIONAL CRAFT EXHIBITION
(28th May to 10th July 1938)
There was also a special souvenir sheet used to advertise this event.
Berlin International Craft Exhibition, Special Postmark
Berlin International Craft Exhibition, Slogan Postmark
| 1. The International Craft Exhibition was held in Berlin from 28th May through 10th July 1938. |
| 2. The International Craft Exhibition was held in Berlin from 28th May through 10th July 1938. |
"SAXONY at WORK" EXHIBITION
(10th June 1938)
This exhibition in Dresden ran from the 18th of June through to the 18th September 1938. In addition to the special postmark shown below there were also 2 official postcards, with either a 5Rpf or a 6Rpf indicia stamp printed to commemorate the event.
DRESDEN - "Saxony at Work" Exhibition, Special postmark.
| 1. DRESDEN - "Saxony at Work" Exhibition. The exhibition was held from the 18th June through to the 18th September 1938. |
KONTINENTALER REKLAME KONGRESS - WIEN
(7th to 11th Jun 1938)
Apart from the special postmark there was also a poster used to advertise this congress
Kontinentaler Reklame Kongress - "Continental Advertising Congress", Special Postmark for Vienna
From my Collection
GERMAN STAMP EXHIBITION, BREMEN
(11th and 12th June 1938)
BREMEN Stamp Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. This special postmark was used to advertise the German Stamp Exhibition held at the Bremen Marketplatz between the 11th and 12th June 1938". |
MEETING of the GAU
(12th June 1938)
This special cancel commemorates the meeting of the Gau in Stettin on 12th Jun 1938. A Gau was a regional administrative region within Germany and under the Nazi's the Gauleiter (Head of a Gau) had considerable power within his Gau. This meeting would have seen the gathering of some very powerful Nazi's, Rudolph Hess, Hitler's No.2 attended the meeting as did Hitler himself.
Gau Meeting - Stettin
SCHIFFSPORT BREMEN-BREMERHAVEN
MS OCEANA
(13th June 1938)
The cruise ship Oceana was used by the KdF to provide cruises for DAF members. Despite crashing in Hamburg in 1922 the ship was rebuilt and was eventually confiscated by the British in Flensburg in 1945 and was used as a troop transport ship. Despite hitting a mine in October 1945 the ship was delivered to the soviet Union in 1946 and renamed the "Sibir".
BREMEN MS Oceana, Special Postmark
| 1. This special postmark appears to promote a KdF event (German Philosopher's Day) in Bremen in June 1938 that used the cruise ship 'MS Oceana' for social events. The postmark is inscribed "Schiffsport Bremen-Bremerhaven - 44 Deutscher Philotiliftentag MS OCEANA 13.6.38". |
LAUENHAIN ÜBER MITTWEIDA, SӒCHS MARINE
(19th Jun 1938)
Lauenhain über Mittweida, Sӓchs Marine, Special Postmark
| 1. This special postmark appears to promote an event at the Sӓchs Marine in Lauenhain near Mittweida on 19th June 1938. The event seems to have been prganised by the S.A. The postmark is inscribed "Lauenhain über Mittweida - Grossveranstaltung der sӓchs marine SA 18:19.6.38" - 'Lauenhain about Mittweida - big event at the Sӓchs Marine SA 18: 19.6.38'. |
WATERSPORTS in MÜLHEIM (RUHR)
(20th Jun 1938)
Mülheim Watersports, Special Postmark
From my Collection
| 1. This special postmark, dated 26-6-38 was to advertise the upcoming German Football Championship final on 3rd July 1938". |
BELZIG 1,000 YEARS of EISENHARDT CASTLE
(5th July 1938)
1,000 years of Eisenhardt Castle, Special Postmark
| 1. This postmark appears to celebrate 1,000 years of Eisenhardt Castle, a medieval castle in the town of Bad Belzig (about 40 miles southwest of the capital Berlin). The postmark shows an artist's impression of the castle. |
DARMSTADT SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIP
(8 to 10 Jul 1938)
Darmstadt Swimming Championship, Slogan Postmark
| 1. The Darmstadt Swimming Championship was held between 8th and 10th July 1938. The postmark is inscribed "DARMSTADT - Erste Große Deutsche Schwimmmeisterschaften - 8-10.Juli 1938 Darmstadt" - 'DARMSTADT - First Great German Swimming Championships - 8-10 July 1938 Darmstadt'. |
100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY of the BIRTH
of COUNT FERDINAND von ZEPPELIN
(8th July 1938)
100th Anniversary of Ferdinand Von Zeppelin's birthday, Slogan Postmark
100th Anniversary of Ferdinand Von Zeppelin's birthday, Slogan Postmark
100th Anniversary of Ferdinand Von Zeppelin's birthday, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This slogan postmark was issued to celebrate Count Ferdinand Von Zeppelin's 100th birthday on the 8th July 1938. The postmark depicts a Zeppelin airship crossing the ocean. The postmark is inscribed "FRANKFURT (MAIN) 8.7.38 100 Geburtstag des Grafen v. Zeppelin - 8 Juli 1938". Other variations on the postmark were issued in other cities. |
| 2. This version of the slogan postmark is inscribed "KONSTANZ 8.7.38 100 - Zeppelinpost - Ausftellung in der Geburtstadt zeppelins - peranft v. B.S.V Konstanz im R.d.Ph" and depicts a portrait of Ferdinand von Zeppelin with a Zeppelin Airship behind him. |
| 3. Slogan postmark used to honour Graf Zeppelin.. |
The DAY of GERMAN ART
(8th to 10th Jul 1938)
Day of German Art, Special Postmark
Day of German Art, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This postmark was used to commemorate the "Day of German Art" on 10th July 1938. It carries the inscription "TAG DER DEUTSCHEN KUNST - 10.7.1938 - MÜNCHEN". A special postcard was also issued to commemorate the day. |
| 1. This slogan postmark was also used in conjunction with the 'Day of German Art' and was used in Munich. The slogan is inscribed "Tag der DEUTSCHEN KUNST 1938 - zu München yom 8-10 Juli 1938". |
NATIONAL CONFERENCE of KdF
(Strength Through Joy)
(9th to 12th Jul 1938)
KdF Conference, Special Postmark
| 1. This postmark was used to commemorate the "National Conference of the KdF" between 9th and 12th July 1938. This special postmark was only,used in Hamburg and depicts the ship "Wilhelm Gustloff" |
SA SPORTSDAY (Berlin)
(15th to 17th July 1938)
SA Sports Day, Special Postmark
SA Sports Day, Slogan Postmark
SA Sports Day, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This special postmark is inscribed "BERLIN-REICHSSPORTFELD - Reichswetterkӓmpe der SA 1938 - 17.7.38". It depicts a Nazi Swastika overlaid with a sword on top of a laurel wreath and the initials 'S' and 'A' either side. |
| 2. This slogan postmark was issued to coincide with the SA Sportsday in Berlin from 15th to 17th July 1938. The inscription reads "15-17.Juli 1938 - SA - Reichswettkӓmpfe" - 'SA Empre Races'. The postmark shows a map of Greater Germany, including Austria and Prussia. |
| 3. This slogan postmark was issued to coincide with the SA Sportsday in Koblenz from 2nd to 3rd July 1938. The inscription reads "Koblenz Wettkampflage der SA Gruppe Westmark 2-3 Juli 1938". |
250 YEARS CELEBRATION of
WOMEN of SCHÖRNDORF
(16th to 17th Jul 1938)
Celebrating 250 years of the women of Schörndorf
From my Collection
5th BROWN RIBBON RACE
(20th Jul 1938)
The Brown Ribbon Race was actually a week long event that featured a number of well known specialist events. The Brown Ribbon Race itself on the 31st July, The International Riders Race on the 24th July and the Brown Ribbon of Show jumping on the 30th July.
1. The Braune Ribbon, Special Postmark
2. The Braune Ribbon, Special Postmark
3. The Braune Ribbon, Special Postmark
| 1. This postmark was used to commemorate the "Braune Ribbon of jumping". This version of the postmark is inscribed "DAS BRAUNE BAND DES SPRINGSPORTS - MÜNCHEN-RIEM - 30.7.1938". The postmark depicts a horseman jumping over hurdles. |
| 2. This special postmark was for the International Amateur Riders Race on 24th July 1938. It is inscribed "INTERNATIONALER AMATEUR-REITETAG - MÜNCHEN-RIEM - 24.7.1938". It depicts two horsemen racing each other over hurdles. |
| 3. This slogan postmark was used only on the day of the race, 31st July 1938 and is inscribed "DAS BRAUNE BAND V. DEUTSCHELAND - MUNCHEN-RIEM - 21-7-38". This version of the postmark shows a horse wearing the Brown Ribbon. |
BERLIN-GRUNAU ANNUAL REGATTA
(24th Jul 1938)
BERLIN-GRUNAU Regatta, Special Postmark
| 1. This special postmark was used to promote the annual Berlin-Grunau Regatta. |
ERBACH WIESENMARKT
(27 July 1938)
Erbach Wiesenmarkt, Slogan Postmark
| The following description of this postmark comes from the book "Spielwiese fur Landeskinder" by Peter W. Sattler: "Außergewöhnlich lange Laufzeit war dem Rennreiter Stempel vergönnt, des jedes Jahre Ende Juli von Sonderpostamt abgegeben wurde: ERBACH (ODENW)WiESENMARKT. Als Ersttag gilt der 18.7.1937; es folgen Verwendungen wahrend des grossen Volksfestes 1938 und 1939. Wiederaufnahme nach dem 2. Welkkrieg war am 27.4.1949 und Ausserbetriebnahme am 29.7.1962. Man kann also 17 Jahrgange belegen." English translation "Exceptionally long running time was granted to the racing rider stamp, which was delivered by special post office at the end of July: ERBACH (ODENW) WiESENMARKT. The first day is 18.7.1937; It is followed by uses during the great folk festival in 1938 and 1939. It was reopened after World War II on 27.4.1949 and decommissioned on 29.7.1962. So you can book 17 years." A special thank you goes to Mr. Otto Ihrig for his help in obtaining this information and his kind gift. To learn more about the current event please go here. |
16th GERMAN SPORTS TOURNAMENT, BRESLAU
(23rd to 31st July 1938)
Besides the special postmark shown below there were also several different souvenir sheets and postcards used to commemorate the tournament.
Breslau Sportfest, Slogan Postmark
| 1. Advertising the 16th German Sports Tournament, Breslau and dated 31.7.1938 this slogan postmark is inscribed "BRESLAU - Deutsches Turn-u. Sportfest 31.7.1938". The postmark depicts a Nazi Swastika with a German Reichsadler with wings outstretched in the background. |
BERLIN INTERNATIONAL HORTICULTURAL CONGRESS
(12th to 17th August 1938)
The first International Horticultural Congress was organised in 1864 in Brussels (Belgium) as a first step in bringing together horticulturalists from around the world to work together. In 1923 the foundation of an International Commission for Horticultural Congresses was established. The International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) was officially registered as such on April 27, 1959, formalising a global network of international horticultural co-operation. Berlin hosted this conference in 1938.
International Horticultural Congress, Slogan Postmark
| 1. Berlin hosted the 12th International Horticultural Congress between the 12th and 17th August 1938. This postmark shows the earth with a rose above it symbolising the truly international flavour of the event. |
GERMAN RADIO EXHIBITION
(Aug 1938)
Radio Exhibition, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This Special slogan postmark was used to advertise the German Radio Exhibition held in Berlin from the 5th to the 21st August 1938. The postmark is inscribed "Groβe Deutsche Rundfunk-Ausfteilang Berlin 1936 5-21 August AMFUNKTURM" - literaly translates as 'Greater German broadcasting division Berlin 1936 5-21 August at the radio tower'. |
The "ETERNAL JEW" EXHIBITION
(2nd Aug to 23rd Oct 1938)
"The Eternal Jew" Exhibition, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This Special slogan postmark was used to promote "The Eternal Jew" Exhibition in Vienna, Austria. The exhibition ran in Munich from 8th November 1937 to 31st January 1938, in Vienna from 2nd August until 23rd October 1938 and subsequently in Berlin from 12th November 1938 until 31st January 1939. The exhibition was an Nazi-sponsored anti-semitic event designed to show the Jews as derisive figures. The Offical poster shows a Jew in a kaftan holding gold coins and carrying a whip. |
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GERMAN DAHLIA FLOWER SHOW
(21 Aug 1938)
German Dahlia Flower Show, Special Postmark
From my Collection
HUNGARIAN ADMIRAL HORTHY's
VISIT to GERMANY
(25th Aug 1938)
Admiral von Horthy of Hungary visited Germany in 1938 at the invitation of the German Minister of Defence. During the visit it is believed that Hitler advised Horthy that if Hungary supported Germany's claims to Czechoslovakia and gave military assistance to any attack on Czechoslovakia then Germany would reward this 'loyalty' by giving Hungary large parts of Czech territory. Hungary refused the offer during this visit.
Hungaria State Visit, Special Postmark
| 1. Hungarian Admiral and Reichsverwerfwer von. Horthy visited Berlin between 20th and 26th August 1938. This postmark commemorates that visit. The inscription reads "Deutschlandreise Reichsverweser v.horthy" translated loosly as 'Germany travel Reichsverweser von horthy'. |
10th NÜRNBERG REICHSPARTEITAG
Nazi Party Rally
(1st Sep 1938)
In addition to the special postmarks below, there was also an official postcard related to this event.
1. Nürnberg Rally, Special Postmark
2. Nürnberg Rally, Slogan Postmark
2. Nürnberg Rally, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This Special postmark was used with the Nazi Party Nürnberg Rally on 7th September 1938, it is inscribed "NÜRNBERG ReichsParteitag der NSDAP - 10.9.1938". It depicts a Reichsadler with a Swastika on its chest. |
| 2. This Special slogan postmark was used with the Nazi Party Nürnberg Rally on 10th September 1938, it is inscribed "Parteitag Groβdeutschlands". It depicts a series of Nazi Party flags marching through Nürnberg. The term Groβdeutschlands is used here to signify "Greater Germany" after the union with Austria. This postmark is dediccated to the NSDAP. This postmark was used form the 5th to 13th September 1939. |
| 3. This Special slogan postmark was also used with the Nazi Party Nürnberg Rally in 1938, it is inscribed "STADT DER REICHSPARTEITAG Nürnberg". It depicts a Reichs Adler holding a Swastika in its talons alongside a scene from Nürnberg. |
4. Nürnberg Rally, Special Postmark
| 4. This Special slogan postmark was also used at the Nazi Party Nürnberg Rally in September 1938, it is inscribed "NÜRNBERG REICHSPARTEITAG NSKK zeltlager Mögeldorf" - 'NUREMBERG REICHSPARTEITAG NSKK tent camp Mögeldorf'. This postmark is dedicated to the N.S.K.K (Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps) a National Socialist motorcycle paramilitary group affiliated to the Nazi Party. This postmark was used from the 5th to 12th September 1939. |
BERLIN-TREPTOW FOLK FESTIVAL
(1st Sep 1938)
Folk Festival, Special Postmark
| 1. The Berlin-Treptow folk festival was a social event organised by the KdF (Kraft durch Freude) a state-operated leisure organisation literaly translated as 'Strength through Joy'. It was a part of the German Labour Front (Deutsche Arbeitsfront, DAF), the national German labour organization that was responsible for organising many different events to help bind the population to the National Socialist ideals of family values. |
HANNOVER STAMP EXHIBITION
(16th to 18th Sep 1938)
Hannover Stamp Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. This postmark was used at the Hannover Stamp Exhibition from 16th to 18th September 1938. |
5th INTERNATIONAL EXAMINATION
and FIDUCIARY CONGRESS
(23rd Sep 1938)
5th International Examination and Fiduciary Congress, Special Postmark
From my Collection
| 1. This postmark advertises the "5th International Examination and Fiduciary Congress" held in Berlin 23.9.1938. |
OCCUPATION of the SUDETENLAND
(CZECHOSLOVAKIA)
(Sep 1938)
Following the Munich agreement signed on 29th September 1938 the Sudetenland was ceeded to Germany between 1 October and 10 October 1938. The Czech part of Czechoslovakia was subsequently invaded by Germany in March 1939, with a portion being annexed and the remainder turned into the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia. 
1. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
2. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Slogan Postmark
3. Aussig - Special postmark for occupation of Sudetenland.
| 1. This postmark was issued in ASCH (Czechoslovakia) on the 30th October 1938. |
| 2. This Special slogan postmark was used to 'promote' the German Occupation of the Sudetenland (Cechoslovakia) in September 1938. The inscription reads "Wir haben das joch getragen nun sind wir frei und bleiben frei!" - 'We have worn the yoke now we are free and stay free!'. |
| 3. The Czechoslovakian town of Aussig used this special postmark on the 4th December 1938. The inscription reads "wahl und befenntnistag - im befreiten Sudetenland" - 'Election and observance day - in the liberated Sudetenland'. |
4. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
5. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
6. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
| 4. This slogan postmark was issued in the Czech town of AICH Near Karlsbad to commemorate the town's annexation by Nazi Germany on 1st October 1938. The text reads "Befreit durch Adolf Hitler Postamt Aich" - 'Freed by Adolf Hitler Post Office Aich'. |
| 5. This slogan postmark was used in the Czech city of Karlova Studánka (Bad Karlsbrunn) following the German occupation of the Sudetenland in October 1938. |
| 6. Special postmark used in Bodenbach following the German occupation of the Sudetenland in October 1938. Inscribed "tag der befreiung" - "Day of Liberation" |
7. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
8. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
9. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
| 7. This postmark was issued in Egerland a region of Czechoslovakia, inside the Sudetenland which bordered on Germany. This postmark is inscribed "Das Egerland dankt dem führer" - 'The Egerlnd thanks the leader' a reference to Hitler's annexation of the Sudetenland back to Germany. |
| 8. This postmark was used in Friedland and is also related to the occupation of the Sudetenland. The inscription reads "Der Befrefer unserer Aeimat - Adolf Hitler" - 'The benefactor of our home - Adolf Hitler" |
| 7. This postmark was issued in Asch a part of the Sudetenland in Czecoslovalia. There was also a souvenir sheet issued in Asch to commemorate the event. |
10. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
11. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
11. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
| 10. This postmark was issued in Graz and is inscribed "Tag Der Befreiung" - 'The Day of Liberation'. |
| 11. This postmark was used in the town of Johannesthal and is inscribed "Freie Sudeten Deutsche Bergstadt Johannesthal" - 'Free the Sudeten German mountain town of Johannisthal'. |
| 12. This postmark was used in the towns of Bergstadt and Johannesthal and is inscribed "Wir danken unferm Führer Bergstadt Johannesthal" - 'We thank our leader Bergstadt Johannesthal'. |
13. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
14. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
15. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
| 13. This postmark was issued in Karlsbad and is inscribed "KARLSBAD 1 - 4.12.1938 - im befreiten Sudetenland - Wahl-und Befenntnistag" - 'KARLSBAD 1 - 4.12.1938 - in the liberated Sudetenland - election and confessional day'. Aussig, Reichenberg and Troppau all used this same cancel. |
| 14. This postmark was issued in Maffersdorf and is inscribed "Postamt Maffersdorf - Maffersdorf Geburtsort Konrad Henlein's - Tag der Befreiung 8 Oktober 1938" - 'Post Office Maffersdorf - Maffersdorf Birthplace of Konrad Henlein - Liberation Day 8 October 1938'. |
| 15. Zeppelin L.Z.130's maiden flight was a propaganda flight to the annexed Sudetenland on 2nd December 1938. This red cachet was applied to all mail carried on L.Z.130 on that day. All mail carrying this stamp will also have a Reichenberg stamp on the reverse side. |
16. Occupation of the Sudetenland, Special Postmark
| 16. This postmark was issued in Reichenberg and is inscribed "REICHENBERG 1 - 4.12.1938 - im befreiten Sudetenland - Wahl-und Befenntnistag" - 'REICHENBERG 1 - 4.12.1938 - in the liberated Sudetenland - election and confessional day'. Aussig, Reichenberg and Troppau all used this same cancel. |
EXHIBITION "HEALTHY LIVING - HAPPY WORK"
(24th Sep to 6th Nov 1938)
Health Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. This special postmark was used to advertise the "Healthy Living - Happy Life" Exhibition held at the Berlin Radio Tower from the 24th Sep to the 6th Nov 1938. |
OPENING OF THE SAARPFALZ THEATRE
(9th October 1938)
Opening of Saarpfalz Theatre, Special Postmark
| 1. This Special postmark commemorates the opening of the Saarpfalz Theatre on the 9th October 1938. The inscription reads "SAARBRÜCKEN Eröffnung des Gautheatres Saarpfalz Saarbrücken 9.10.38". |
15th ANNIVERSARY OF THE MÜNICH PUTSCH
(9th Nov 1938)
In addition to the special postmark there were also a number of commemorative postcards available.
15th Anniversary of the Münich Putsch, Special Postmark
| 1. This Special postmark was used to commemorate the 15th Anniversary of the Münich Putsch. The inscription reads "HAUPTSTADT DER BEWEGUNG MÜNCHEN - 9.11.1923 - 9.11.1938" - 'CAPITAL OF THE MOVEMENT MUNICH'. |
POSTAGE STAMP EXHIBITION
(16th Nov 1938)
Berlin - Postage Stamp Exhibition.
| 1. On 16th Nov 1938 a Postage Stamp Exhibition was held in Berlin. Like many of these stamp exhibitions it was organised by the KdF 'Strength through joy' organisation. |
WINTERHILFSWERK
(Winter Relief Fund)
(18th Nov 1938)
Winter Relief Fund, Slogan Postmark
Day of solidarity, Special Postmark
| 1. The Winter Relief Fund special cancellation featured the W.H.W Eagle symbol and the inscription "ein volk hilft sich felbft" - 'A people helps themselves' referring to the charity donations made by ordinary Germans to support other less fortunate members of society. |
| 1. This Special postmark was used on the 3rd December 1938 to comemmorate the Day of Solidarity. There are two versions of the postmark and this one, used in Berlin, depicts an Edelweiss flower and the inscription "Tag Der Nationalen Solidaritat". |
GREAT ANTI-BOLSHEVISM EXHIBITION WEEK
VIENNA
(10th Dec 1938)
Slogan Postmark used in Vienna
CARL SCHAEFER'S MӒRCHENSTADT - LILIPUT
(20th Dec 1938)
Liliput, Slogan Postmark
| 1. This Special slogan postmark celebrates Carl Schaefer's Mӓrchestadt. This was a group of midget entertainers that lived in the small town of Liliput and toured the country performing live shows. This was a very popular form of entertainment in the 1930's. |
ADENDORF STONEWARE EXHIBITION
(30th Dec 1938)
ADENDORF Stoneware Exhibition, Special Postmark
| 1. This Special postmark appears to commemorate a "Green Blue Stoneware" Exhibition held in ADENDORF near MECKENHEIM in December 1938. |
Schönheide (ERZGEB) BRUSH FESTIVAL
(31st Dec 1938 )
1. Schönheide Brush Festival.
| 1. This postmark celebrates the annual Schönheide (Erzgeb) Brush Festival which was held on 31st Dec in 1938. |