Galerie

 

High Inflation Cover with Postage Due

When the Viennese firm mailed this letter to Herr Pieper on the 27th of August, 1923, it appeared to them that 600 Kronen would get it delivered to his post office box in Danzig. However, Herr Pieper found charges of 36,000 Marks due to the increase in rates on the 27th of August in Danzig to 80,000 Marks. Austria was considered “foreign” from 1.10.19 until 31.1.1925. Inflation-era definitive stamps Mi.#148, #15 1, and 3 x #152 were used by the post office in lieu of regular postage dues, on the morning of 30th of August. Note the darker blue color of the marking crayon, in contrast to the lighter blue of the more recent forgeries that are making their rounds in Europe.

By the way, how did Herr Pieper learn of the postage due-letter that was awaitnig him if he picked up his mail at a post office box? Was he notified by a special form that was put into the box? Does anyone have an example of such a form?

 

Danzig Report Vol. 1 - Nr. 90 - January - February - March - 1996,  Page 26.