Bavaria – Scott # O21, used

Description

Bavaria Scott #O21 (1919) — Used

This 5 Pfennig yellow green Official stamp (Scott #O21) was issued in 1919 by the Free State of Bavaria (Volksstaat Bayern), following the abdication of King Ludwig III and the end of the Bavarian monarchy. The stamp reuses the earlier royal Dienstmarke design featuring the Bavarian coat of arms with lions, now overprinted “Volksstaat Bayern” to signify the establishment of the republican government.

Issued during the brief but turbulent transition from kingdom to republic, these overprints mark one of the most historically significant moments in Bavarian philately — the shift from royal to civic authority. They were used on official correspondence of the new state during the early Weimar period.

This example is postally used, with a clear circular cancel and excellent legibility of both the overprint and original design.

Condition: Used; clear “Volksstaat Bayern” overprint; strong color; fine centering.
Issued: 1919
Color: Yellow green
Denomination: 5 Pfennig
Design Theme: Bavarian coat of arms with lions
Overprint: “Volksstaat Bayern” (People’s State of Bavaria)
Purpose: Official government correspondence under the new republic
Historical Note: Transitional issue marking Bavaria’s political transformation from monarchy to republic at the close of World War I.