German Empire 1872 Small Shield 1/4 Groschen
German Empire · 1872 · 1/4 Groschen
This definitive stamp features the small imperial eagle, or 'Kleiner Brustschild,' a prominent symbol of the newly formed German Empire. The design is simple and functional, with the denomination clearly displayed and the inscription 'DEUTSCHE REICHS-POST' indicating its official postal use. The eagle is embossed within a shield, a classic element of German heraldry.
Issued just one year after the unification of Germany in 1871, this stamp is part of the first definitive series for the entire German Empire, replacing the various stamps of the individual German states.
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Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults
Well centered, fresh colors
Nicely centered, minor flaws
Average centering, acceptable
Off-center or visible wear
Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.
