Bavaria – Scott # 139, used

Description

Bavaria Scott #139 (1919) — Used

This 10 Pfennig carmine overprinted definitive from Bavaria (Scott #139) was issued in 1919, during the short-lived People’s State of Bavaria (Volksstaat Bayern) that followed the abdication of King Ludwig III. The bold black Gothic overprint “Volksstaat Bayern”—meaning People’s State of Bavaria—was applied to remaining royal-era stamps to reflect the revolutionary new government established after World War I.

While the overprint was not issued by the radical Bavarian Soviet Republic, it circulated during the same tumultuous period when Bavaria shifted from monarchy to socialist republic, and then to Weimar control. These issues are highly regarded for their historical resonance, representing both political change and the end of independent Bavarian philately.

This example is postally used, showing a sharp horizontal cancel that leaves both the overprint and portrait of Ludwig III clear and legible.

Condition: Used; crisp cancel; fine centering; clean perforations; strong color and sharp overprint.
Issued: 1919
Color: Carmine with black overprint
Denomination: 10 Pfennig
Series: Overprinted King Ludwig III Definitives — “Volksstaat Bayern”
Subject: King Ludwig III portrait with People’s State of Bavaria overprint